Pallet dispenser and method thereof

ABSTRACT

An apparatus includes a pallet dispensing system, including a movable frame being configured to movably hold, at least in part, a pallet stack between a pallet-storage position and a pallet-dispensation position. The movable frame is also configured to hold the pallet stack relative to a pallet transporter in such a way that the pallet transporter is permitted to vertically lift, at least in part, the pallet stack as the movable frame is provided, at least in part, with vertical-lift assistance through stored potential energy.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 14/905,386 filedJan. 15, 2016, which application is the U.S. national phase of PCTapplication No. PCT/IB2014/059533 filed Mar. 7, 2014, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/847,010, filed Jul.16, 2013, entitled PALLET DISPENSER, the contents of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Aspects generally relate to apparatus and method for dispensing pallets.

BACKGROUND

A pallet dispenser dispenses one or more pallets from a pallet stackonto a work surface. In an automated environment, this work surface maybe a chain conveyor. In other environments, the one or more pallets maybe dispensed onto the floor. In these environments, a pallet transportersuch as a pallet truck, pallet jack, or forklift can be used to collectand move the one or more dispensed pallets.

Pallet dispensers are generally powered and require a connection to apower source. For instance, pallet dispensers may require motors orpumps that must be powered by an external power source. Examples ofexternal power sources (for powering or energizing the pallet dispenser)might include electrical utility grids, generators, steam, hydraulicpressure or compressed air, etc.

In some environments, however, providing power to the pallet dispensermay be difficult or expensive. For example, deploying a pallet dispensermay require modifications to the power layout of the facility. In otherscenarios it may be prohibitively expensive to deliver power to theoptimal installation location of the pallet dispenser. In yet anotherscenario, the reliability of power delivery may prevent the use of apowered pallet dispenser.

SUMMARY

What is provided are systems, apparatuses, and methods for an unpoweredpallet dispenser. The power grid-independent, or unpowered, palletdispenser of the present disclosure uses input provided by the pallettransporter to dispense pallets.

The pallet dispenser of the present disclosure may be deployed in anenvironment where pallets are used without the need to route power tothe pallet dispenser's location. This may reduce the cost of deployingand/or operating a pallet dispenser since altering the power layout of afacility is not required.

The present disclosure also allows for deployment in environments wherea power source, such as an electrical utility grid, may be unreliable ornon-existent. This is because the presently disclosed pallet dispenseruses input provided by the pallet transporter to dispense pallets.

Known pallet dispenser machines are configured to hold a stack ofpallets, typically about fifteen pallets high and some up to abouttwenty five pallets high. The known pallet dispensers are electricallypowered, and they are configured to automatically dispense a singlepallet onto a chain conveyor for automated systems, or to dispense apallet onto the floor, etc. An advantage of dispensing a pallet onto thefloor is the pallet can then be removed using a pallet truck or a palletjack. The usage of the pallet trucks verses a forklift in pickingwarehouses is because of their cost and operator ergonomics. There aremany known pallet dispensers on the market today, and they all requireelectrical power, and/or electrical power in combination with air poweror hydraulic power to provide the force necessary (essential) to achievethe dispensing function (to dispense a pallet from a pallet stack) andto raise or lower the pallet stack

Typically, there is a cost for installing electrical services to thewarehouse location where the known pallet dispenser is to be installed.

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, there is provided an apparatus,comprising: a pallet dispensing system (100), including: a movable frame(510) being configured to movably hold, at least in part, a pallet stack(12) between a pallet-storage position and a pallet-dispensationposition, and the movable frame (510) also being configured to hold thepallet stack (12) relative to a pallet transporter (56) in such a waythat the pallet transporter (56) is permitted to vertically lift, atleast in part, the pallet stack (12) as the movable frame (510) isprovided, at least in part, with vertical-lift assistance through storedpotential energy.

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with another aspect, there is provided an apparatusincluding a pallet dispensing system (100). The pallet dispensing system(100) includes a movable frame (510) configured to movably hold, atleast in part, a pallet stack (12) between a pallet-storage position anda pallet-dispensation position. The movable frame (510) is alsoconfigured to hold a pallet (10) of the pallet stack (12) relative to apallet transporter (56) in such a way that the pallet transporter (56)is permitted to vertically lift the pallet stack (12) and allow themovable frame (510) to travel upwards.

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, there is provided a pallet dispensingsystem (100) including a movable frame (510) configured to movably hold,at least in part, a pallet stack (12) between a pallet-storage positionand a pallet-dispensation position. The movable frame (510) is alsoconfigured to hold a pallet (10) of the pallet stack (12) relative to apallet transporter (56) in such a way that the pallet transporter (56)is permitted to vertically lift the pallet stack (12) allowing themovable frame (510) to travel upwards. The pallet dispensing system(100) also includes a dampening device configured to dampen, at least inpart, free-fall descent of the movable frame (510) under influence ofgravity from the pallet-storage position toward the pallet-dispensationposition. Since the transporter (56) lifts the pallet stack (12), ataller instance of the pallet stack 12 may be possible.

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, the pallet dispensing system is adaptedsuch that the movable frame (510) is configured to movably hold thepallet stack (12) having the pallet (10) between the pallet-storageposition and the pallet-dispensation position without consumingelectrical energy, and the dampening device is configured to dampenfree-fall descent of the movable frame (510) under influence of gravityfrom the pallet-storage position toward the pallet-dispensation positionwithout consuming electrical energy.

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, there is provided, by way of example, thedampening device that includes a hydraulic cylinder (52) configured tocooperate with a hydraulic reservoir (450).

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, there is provided the pallet dispensingsystem (100) that further includes a raising device being configured tomove the movable frame (510) away from the pallet-dispensation positiontoward the pallet-storage position without consuming electrical energy.

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, there is provided, by way of example, theraising device that includes a spring assembly (54) being configured toapply, at least in part, an amount of mechanical kinetic energy beingconverted, at least in part, from an amount of mechanical potentialenergy to the movable frame (510) in such a way that application, atleast in part, of the amount of mechanical kinetic energy to the movableframe (510) urges, at least in part, movement of the movable frame (510)away from the pallet-dispensation position toward the pallet-storageposition.

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, there is provided a pallet dispensingsystem (100), including a movable frame (510) being configured to: benon-electrically powered in such a way as to operate without consumingelectrical energy; selectively latch with a pallet stack (12) having apallet (10) between an unlatched state and a latched state; and movablyhold, at least in part, the pallet stack (12) between a pallet-storageposition and a pallet-dispensation position once the movable frame (510)and the pallet stack (12) are latched together. The pallet dispensingsystem (100) also includes a dampening device being configured to: benon-electrically powered in such a way as to operate without consumingelectrical energy; operatively couple to the movable frame (510); andslow down free-fall descent of the movable frame (510) under theinfluence of gravity from the pallet-storage position toward thepallet-dispensation position for the case where the movable frame (510)becomes unlatched from the pallet stack (12), and the movable frame(510) is free to descend under the influence of gravity from thepallet-storage position toward the pallet-dispensation position.

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, there is provided, by way of example, theraising device that includes a counterweight assembly (790) configuredto: store the amount of mechanical potential energy; and convert theamount of mechanical potential energy to the amount of mechanicalkinetic energy.

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, there is provided a method of operating apallet dispensing system (100), including dampening, at least in part,free-fall descent of the pallet stack (12) under the influence ofgravity from the pallet-storage position toward the pallet-dispensationposition without consuming electrical energy.

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, there is provided a method for dispensingpallets, comprising: moving a pallet stack (12) held in a movable frame(510) from a pallet-storage position to a pallet-dispensation positionincluding: raising the pallet stack (12) held in the movable frame(510), the movable frame (510) being configured to be moved between thepallet-storage position and the pallet-dispensation position once thepallet stack (12) is raised; and dispensing a pallet from the movableframe (510).

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, there is provided the method that furtherincludes movably holding, at least in part, a pallet stack (12) betweena pallet-storage position and a pallet-dispensation position withoutconsuming electrical energy.

In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s) identified above,in accordance with an aspect, there is provided other aspects asidentified in the claims.

Other aspects and features of the non-limiting embodiments may nowbecome apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the followingdetailed description of the non-limiting embodiments with theaccompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The non-limiting embodiments (examples) may be more fully appreciated byreference to the following detailed description of the non-limitingembodiments when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the pallet dispenser;

FIGS. 2A to 2G are cross-sectional views displaying the various stagesof an embodiment of the pallet dispenser in operation;

FIG. 3 is cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the pallet dispenser;

FIG. 4A depicts an exploded perspective view of an example of thepallet-magazine assembly of the pallet dispenser of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4B depicts an exploded perspective view of an alternate example ofa pallet-magazine assembly of the pallet dispenser 2 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the palletdispenser having the pallet-stack enclosure;

FIG. 6 depicts a flowchart showing various states of a cycle of anembodiment of the pallet dispenser;

FIGS. 7A to 7I depict cross sectional view of an embodiment for asecuring mechanism as used in an example of the pallet dispenser;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the palletdispenser;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the pallet-stackenclosure;

FIGS. 10A to 10D depict examples of a detection assembly for use withthe pallet dispenser;

FIG. 11 depicts a partial side view of an example of a latch assembly ofthe pallet dispenser, encircled in FIG. 2G;

FIG. 12 depicts a partial side view of an example of a latch assembly ofthe pallet dispenser, encircled in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 13A depicts a perspective view of an example of the palletdispenser of FIG. 1 including a side-loading pallet-enclosing assembly;

FIG. 13B depicts a perspective view of an example of a front loadingpallet-enclosing assembly of the pallet dispenser of FIG. 1;

FIG. 13C depicts a perspective view of an example of the front loadingpallet-enclosing assembly of FIG. 9B;

FIG. 14 depicts an exploded perspective view of an example of alocking-restraint apparatus of the front loading pallet-enclosingassembly of FIG. 9B; and

FIG. 15 depicts an exploded perspective view of the locking-restraintapparatus of the front loading pallet-enclosing assembly of FIG. 10.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be illustrated byphantom lines, diagrammatic representations and fragmentary views. Incertain instances, details not necessary for an understanding of theembodiments (and/or details that render other details difficult toperceive) may have been omitted.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding componentsthroughout the several figures of the Drawings. Elements in the severalfigures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have notnecessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some ofthe elements in the figures may be emphasized relative to other elementsfor facilitating understanding of the various presently disclosedembodiments. In addition, common, but well-understood, elements that areuseful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments are often notdepicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of the variousembodiments of the present disclosure.

LISTING OF REFERENCE NUMERALS USED IN THE DRAWINGS

-   2 pallet dispenser, or unpowered pallet dispenser-   4 pallet-stack enclosure-   8 work surface-   10 pallet-   11 pallet-   12 pallet stack-   13 pallet-   14 gates-   15 pallet-   16 doors-   17 pallet-   18 bar-   18 pipe-   19 pallet-   21 pallet-   30 raised position-   30 raised state-   32 lowered position-   32 lowered state-   34 position-   34 raised position-   40 latch-   40 latches-   40 securing mechanism-   51 hydraulic valve-   52 hydraulic cylinder, or telescoping hydraulic cylinder-   54 spring assembly-   55 pallet moving assembly-   56 pallet transporter-   58 hydraulic circuit-   59 stationary support frame-   100 pallet dispensing system-   100 unpowered pallet dispensing system-   430 closed-loop hydraulic circuit-   450 hydraulic reservoir-   480 front opening-   480 opening-   490 hinge, or hinges-   495 cotter pins-   510 movable frame-   600 support, or supports-   605 hinges-   610 pallet-enclosing assembly-   620 mesh walls-   630 solid walls-   700 dog, or dogs (bars)-   710 spring-loaded latch assembly-   720 arm, or arms-   721 cam pivot-   730 hinge-   740 cam roller, or cam rollers-   760 cam follower, or cam followers-   780 cam spring-   790 counterweight assembly-   800 detection assembly-   810 actuator-   820 limit switch assembly-   1000 locking-restraint apparatus-   1100 spring-loaded restraints-   1200 spring-   1300 restraint

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and isnot intended to limit the described embodiments or the application anduses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary”or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, orillustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or“illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other implementations. All of the implementationsdescribed below are exemplary implementations provided to enable personsskilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure andare not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is definedby the claims. For purposes of the description herein, the terms“upper,” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,”“horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the examples asoriented in the drawings. Furthermore, there is no intention to be boundby any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technicalfield, background, brief summary or the following detailed description.It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processesillustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the followingspecification, are simply exemplary embodiments (examples), aspectsand/or concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specificdimensions and other physical characteristics relating to theembodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting,unless the claims expressly state otherwise. It is understood that “atleast one” is equivalent to “a”.

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an example of the pallet dispenser2.

FIGS. 2A to 2G depict cross-sectional views of example stages of thepallet dispenser 2 of FIG. 1 in operation.

FIG. 3 depicts a cross-sectional view of the pallet dispenser 2 of FIG.1.

Examples of a pallet dispensing system 100 of the present disclosure areshown in FIGS. 1 to 3.

Referring to FIG. 1, there is depicted the pallet dispenser 2, apallet-stack enclosure 4, a work surface 8, a pallet 10, a pallet stack12, an opening 480, supports 600, hinges 605, and mesh walls 620.

In this example, the pallet dispensing system comprises a palletdispenser 2, a pallet transporter 56, and a pallet-stack enclosure 4.The pallet dispenser 2 can be configured to be used with any typicallyconstructed pallet such as a two-way pallet or a four-way pallet (alsoknown as the CHEP pallet). The pallet dispenser 2 can also be configuredto be used with different kinds of surfaces used for transporting loads.For example, in some environments flat boards are used like pallets, andthe pallet dispenser 2 can be used to dispense these flat boards.

FIGS. 2A to 2G depict examples of a dispensing cycle for dispensingpallets from the pallet dispensing system 100 of FIG. 1.

The following are depicted in FIG. 2A: the pallet dispensing system 100,the pallet dispenser 2, the pallet-stack enclosure 4, the pallet stack12, a latch 40, a hydraulic cylinder 52, a spring assembly 54, astationary support frame 59, a closed-loop hydraulic circuit 430, amovable frame 510, a dog 700, arms 720, a cam roller 740, and a camfollower 760.

Referring to FIGS. 2A to 2G, in an embodiment, the pallet dispensingcycle comprises raising a pallet stack 12, separating and removing oneor more pallets 10 from the pallet stack 12, and lowering the palletstack 12.

In an example as shown in FIG. 2A, the pallet dispenser 2 andpallet-stack enclosure 4 (partially shown) enclose a pallet stack.

As shown in FIG. 2B, a pallet transporter 56 enters the pallet dispenser2 and engages a pallet 10 in the pallet stack 12.

As shown in FIG. 2C, the pallet transporter 56 raises the pallet stack12 and the pallet dispenser 2 transitions to a raised position 30. Thepallet stack 12 is secured such that when the pallet dispenser 2 is inthe raised position 30 one or more pallets 10 can be separated from thepallet stack 12. In an example, a securing mechanism 40 is provided forsecuring the pallet stack 12 to the pallet dispenser 2. The securingmechanism 40 may be referred to as a latch 40.

As shown in FIG. 2D, the pallet transporter 56 lowers and separates theone or more pallets 10 from the pallet stack 12.

As shown in FIG. 2E, the pallet transporter 56 then removes the one ormore separated pallets 10 from the pallet dispenser 2.

As shown in FIG. 2F, the pallet stack 12 is then lowered to the worksurface using the weight of the pallet stack 12. The pallet dispenser 2transitions to the lowered position 32 when the pallet stack 12 islowered. The lowered position 32 may be referred to as the lowered state32.

In some examples, dampeners are used to dampen the lowering of thepallet stack 12. In the example shown in FIGS. 5 and 2A to 2G, thedampeners comprise one or more telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52connected to a hydraulic circuit 58 of the closed-loop hydraulic circuit430. The telescoping hydraulic cylinder 52 is hereafter referred to asthe hydraulic cylinder 52.

In another example, the pallet dispensing cycle further comprisestransitioning to a ready raised position 34 after the pallet dispenser 2has reached the lowered position 32. In the ready raised position 34 thepallet stack 12 is secured so that when the pallet dispenser 2 is in theraised position 30 one or more pallets 10 can be separated from thepallet stack 12, as is shown in FIGS. 5 and 2A.

As shown in FIG. 2G, in one example, the pallet stack 12 is releasedwhen the pallet dispenser 2 is in the lowered state 32. This allows thepallet dispenser 2 to transition to the ready raised position 34, asshown in FIGS. 5 and 2A. In some examples, the raisers are used to raisethe pallet dispenser 2 to the ready raised position 34. In the exampleshown in FIGS. 5 and 2A to 2G, the raisers comprise one or moretelescoping cylinders or air springs filled with a compressible gas in aspring assembly 54.

In another embodiment, the pallet dispenser 2 comprises a stationarysupport frame 59 and a movable frame 510. The movable frame 510 may becalled a pallet-magazine assembly. The movable frame 510 can betransitioned, by using a pallet transporter 56, between a raised 30 andlowered position 32 relative to the stationary support frame 59. Themovable frame 510 comprises a securing mechanism 40 for securing apallet stack 12. When the movable frame 510 is in the raised position,the movable frame 510 and securing mechanism 40 secures the pallet stack12 so that one or more pallets 10 can be separated from the pallet stack12.

In some examples, the pallet dispenser 2 comprises one or more dampenersfor dampening the transition of the movable frame 510 from the raised tothe lowered state. In the example where the movable frame 510 also has aready state, the pallet dispenser 2 further comprises one or moreraisers for transitioning the movable frame 510 between the lowered andready states.

In another embodiment, the pallet dispenser 2 comprises a stationarysupport frame 59 for supporting the movable frame 510. The stationarysupport frame 59 may also support parts of the dampening mechanism, theraising mechanism, and the securing mechanism 40, if present. Thestationary support frame 59 may be secured to a work surface 8, such asa warehouse floor, using fasteners such as bolts. In other example, thestationary support frame 59, and hence the pallet dispenser 2, may bemobile. For instance, the stationary support frame 59 may compriselockable wheels rather than be affixed to the work surface 8. This wouldfacilitate the easy relocation of the pallet dispenser 2.

In an example, the stationary support frame 59 comprises a front side400, a back side 420, and a first side 440 and a second side 460. Thefirst side 440 and the second side 460 are connected to the front side400 and the back side 420 such that the assembly defines an enclosurecapable of enclosing a pallet stack 12. In an example as shown in FIG.5, an opening 480 is defined in the front side 400 of the stationarysupport frame 59 so that one or more pallets 10 can be removed from theenclosure.

In another example, one or more of the sides of the stationary supportframe 59 may allow for a user to access the interior of the palletdispenser 2. For example, in some situations the user may be required tomanually add or remove pallets 10 from the pallet dispenser 2. In othersituations, maintenance personnel may need access to the interior of thepallet dispenser 2 to service it. In some examples, one or more of thesides may be configured to be a door or gate. In other examples, one ormore sides may be removable.

In another example, the stationary support frame 59 comprises aplurality of support posts (not shown) configured to surround a palletstack 12. In this example, the stationary support frame 59 comprisesfour support posts corresponding to each of the four corners of thepallet stack 12. Since no walls or sides are defined between any of thefour posts, a pallet transporter 56 would be able to remove one or morepallets from the pallet dispenser 2 from between at least two supportposts.

In another example, the pallet dispenser 2 comprises a movable frame 510that is connected to the stationary support frame 59. The movable frame510 is configured to be movable between a raised 34 and lowered position32 relative to the stationary support frame 59, as shown in theflowchart of FIG. 6.

When in the raised position 34, the movable frame 510 secures the palletstack 12 so that one or more pallets 10 are removable from the palletdispenser 2. This is illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 2C to 2E. Whenthe movable frame 510 is in the lowered position the pallet stack 12rests on the work surface 8. This is illustrated, for example, in FIGS.2F and 2G.

In another embodiment, the movable frame 510 comprises a securingmechanism that secures the pallet stack 12 to the movable frame 510. Inan example, the securing mechanism comprises one or more latches 40configured to engage a pallet in a stack of pallets.

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is depicted the following: the palletdispenser 2, the work surface 8, the pallet stack 12, the latch 40, thehydraulic cylinder 52, the spring assembly 54, the pallet transporter56, the hydraulic circuit 58, the stationary support frame 59, themovable frame 510, and the cam roller 740.

FIG. 4A depicts an exploded perspective view of an example of thestationary support frame 59 of the pallet dispenser 2 FIG. 1. It will beappreciated that the stationary support frame 59 may be called apallet-magazine assembly.

FIG. 4A depicts the following components: the hydraulic cylinder 52, thespring assembly 54, the stationary support frame 59, the closed-loophydraulic circuit 430, the hydraulic reservoir 450, the cotter pins 495,the side 400, the back side 420, the closed-loop hydraulic circuit 430,the support frame side 440, the support frame side 460, the hinge 490,the opening 480, the movable frame 510, the back side 520, the secondside 560, the dog 700, the arm 720, the cam roller 740, the cam follower760, and the cam spring 780.

FIG. 4B depicts an exploded perspective view of another example of thestationary support frame 59 of the pallet dispenser 2 of FIG. 1.

Referring to FIG. 4A, in another embodiment, the movable frame 510 mayalso be connected to one or more dampeners for dampening the lowering ofthe pallet stack when the movable frame 510 transitions from the raisedto the lowered position. In an example, the dampeners comprise one ormore telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 fillable with acompression-resistant fluid in a closed-loop hydraulic circuit 430. Asthe movable frame 510 transitions to the raised position 30 the one ormore telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 are filled with thecompression-resistant fluid. As the movable frame 510 transitions to thelowered position 32 the compression-resistant fluid is drained from theone or more telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 through the closed-loophydraulic circuit 430 to a hydraulic reservoir 450 containing thecompression-resistant hydraulic fluid.

In some examples, the movable frame 510 may also be configured to bemovable to a ready raised position 34. When in the ready raised position34, the securing devices secure the pallet stack 12 so that one or morepallets 10 can be separated from the pallet stack 12 when the movableframe 510 is in the raised position 30. In an example, the rest positionis defined between the raised and lowered position. In this example, themovable frame 510 comprises one or more raisers for raising the movableframe 510 from the lowered state to the ready state. In this example,the securing devices release the pallet stack 12 when the movable frame510 is in the lowered position, and the raisers (raising mechanisms)raise the movable frame 510 to the ready position where the securingdevice secures the pallet stack to the movable frame 510. In an example,the raisers include one or more gas spring cylinders 52 filled with acompressible fluid. A skilled person would understand that alternatemeans for raising the movable frame could be used without departing fromthe scope of this disclosure. For example, in another example, theraisers may be counterweights, pulleys, and cables configured to raisethe movable frame 510 from the lowered position to the ready raisedposition 34.

In some examples, the movable frame 510 may have a first side 540 andthe second side 560 corresponding to the first side 440 and the secondside 460 of the stationary support frame 59. In other examples, themovable frame 510 has a front side 500, a back side 520, a first side540, and the second side 560, corresponding to the front side 400, theback side 420, the first side 440, and the second side 460 of thestationary support frame 59. In yet another example, the movable frame510 may have the first side 540, the second side 560, and the back side520, corresponding to the first side 440, the second side 460, and theback side 420 (respectively) of the stationary support frame 59.

In some examples, the movable frame 510 is connected to the stationarysupport frame 59 using matching cam rollers and cam guides. This allowsthe movable frame 510 to move smoothly from the raised 30 to loweredstate 32. In another example where the stationary support frame 59 hassides, and channels or opening 480 may be defined in the side 440 andthe side 460 of the stationary support frame 59 that allow the movableframe 510 to move from the raised to lowered state. A skilled technicianwould understand that alternate ways of connecting the stationarysupport frame 59 to the movable frame 510 could be used withoutdeparting from the scope of this disclosure. For example, the movableframe 510 may be connected to the stationary support frame 59 by shocksand springs that allow the movable frame to move relative to thestationary support frame 59. In another example, counterweights,pulleys, and cables could be used.

When the movable frame is in the raised state 30, the securing mechanism40 of the pallet dispenser 2 secures the pallet stack 12 so that one ormore pallets 10 can be separated from the pallet stack 12. When thepallet dispenser 2 is in the lowered state 32 the pallet stack 12 restson the work surface 8. When the pallet stack is resting on the worksurface 8 the pallet transporter 56 can engage a pallet 10 in the palletstack 12.

A pallet transporter 56 is used to transition the movable frame 510 toits raised state 30. In this example, the pallet transporter 56 engagesa pallet 10 in the pallet stack 12 and raises the pallet stack 12. Asthe pallet stack 12 is raised, the movable frame 510 transitions to araised state 30. In an example, the movable frame's securing mechanismsecures the pallet stack 12 so that as the pallet stack 12 is beingraised by the pallet transporter 56 the movable frame transitions to araised state 30. In this example, when the pallet dispenser 2 is in itsraised state 30 the pallet stack 12 is raised from the work surface 8and one or more pallets 10 can be removed from the pallet stack 12.

While in the raised state 30, the securing mechanism of the movableframe 510 secures the pallet stack 12 so that one or more pallets 10 canbe separated from the pallet stack 12 and removed from the palletdispenser 2. In this example, the pallet transporter 56 is lowered,separating one or more pallets 10 from the pallet stack 12. The pallettransporter 56 can then remove the one or more pallet stack 12 from thepallet dispenser 2.

In one example, the movable frame 510 is configured to remain in theraised state 30 until a state change event has been triggered. Forexample, the movable frame 510 may hold the pallet stack 12 in theraised state 30 until the one or more pallets 10 have been removed fromthe pallet dispenser 2. Once the one or more pallets 10 are cleared fromthe pallet dispenser 2, the movable frame 510 will begin transitioningto the lowered state 32.

In another example, the movable frame 510 may begin transitioning to thelowered state 32 once the one or more pallets 10 have been separatedfrom the pallet stack 12, but before the one or more pallets 10 havebeen removed from the pallet dispenser 2. In this example, the rate atwhich the pallet transporter 56 lowers the one or more pallets 10 isfaster than the rate at which the movable frame 510 transitions to itslowered state 32. This allows the one or more pallets 10 to be removedfrom the pallet dispenser 2 before the movable frame 510 fullytransitions to the lowered state 32.

In both of the examples provided above, gravity alone is used totransition the movable frame from the raised state 30 to the loweredstate 32. In the examples provided above, the weight of the pallet stack12 combined with the weight of parts of the pallet dispenser 2 are usedto transition the movable frame from the raised state 30 to the loweredstate 32.

In some examples, the pallet dispensing cycle may be complete once themovable frame 510 has reached the lowered state 32. In other examples,the movable frame 510 may need to transition to a ready raised position34 before another pallet dispensing cycle may restart. In this example,the movable frame 510 transitions to a ready raised position 34 from thelowered state 32 by way of a raising device. Once in the ready raisedposition 34, the securing device secures the pallet stack 12 so that oneor more pallets 10 can be separated from the pallet stack 12 when themovable frame is in the raised state 30.

In another aspect, a securing mechanism is provided for securing thepallet stack to the movable frame. The securing mechanism secures thepallet stack so that when the pallet stack 12 is raised or lowered bythe pallet transporter 56 the movable frame 510 is also raised orlowered. In this example, the securing mechanism comprises one or morelatches 40 that are configured to engage a single pallet 10. A skilledperson would understand that alternate means of securing a pallet stack12 to the movable frame 510 could be used without departing from thescope of this disclosure. For instance, a plurality of friction platescould be used to secure the pallet stack. Alternately, a blade orremovable support could be used between the bottom pallet and the palletstack 12, thereby securing the pallet stack 12 above the bottom pallet.

In this example as partially shown in FIG. 7A, the latches 40 are dogs700, or hooks, connected to the arms 720 movably attached to the movableframe 510 by a hinge 730, and are configured to engage one or morepallets 10. The cam spring 780 is connects the movable frame 510 to thearm 720 so that, when the spring is un-sprung, the latch pivots towardsthe stationary support frame 59, thereby disengaging the one or morepallets 10. It will be appreciated that the dogs 700 may be calledsupport bars.

In some examples, the movable frame 510 transitions from a raisedposition and a lowered position substantially vertically. In thisexample, a cam follower 760 is integrated with the arm 720, and theassembly extends vertically from the movable frame 510 to take advantageof the substantially vertical movement of the movable frame 510. Acorresponding cam roller 740 is configured on the stationary supportframe 59 that interfaces with the cam follower 760. In other example,however, the configuration of cam follower 760 and corresponding camroller 740 may be reversed.

In this example, the arms 720 are configured to interface with a camfollower 760 on the stationary support frame 59 so that when the movableframe 510 is in the lowered position 32 the latches do not engage apallet. In this example, the tension provided by the cam spring 780causes the latch to pivot away from the pallet stack, therebydisengaging the pallet 10 when the movable frame 510 is in the loweredposition 32. When the movable frame 510 is in any other position,however, the latches engage the pallet 10, thereby securing all palletsabove the engaged pallet 10. In this example, the cam follower 760engages the arm 720 so as to prevent the latch from springing back anddisengaging the pallet 10.

A skilled person would understand that alternate ways of causing a latchto secure and unsecure a pallet or pallet stack could be used withoutdeparting from the scope of this disclosure. In alternate example, thelatch may comprise a cam roller 740 that interfaces with a cam followeron the stationary support frame 59. In this example, the cam followers760 are configured to interface with the cam rollers 740 on thestationary support frame 59 such that when the movable frame 510 is inthe lowered position the latches 40 disengage from the pallet 10 andunsecure the pallet stack 12. In this example, the cam follower 760allows the cam spring 780 to pull the arm 720 and the dog 700 away fromthe pallet. When the movable frame 510 is in any other position, forexample raised or ready, the cam followers interface with the arm sothat the latches engage a pallet 10.

In other examples, the cam followers 760 or cam rollers 740 may not beintegrated with the arms 720. In some examples, the arms 720 may extenddiagonally from the movable frame 510 rather than vertically as waspreviously discussed. In these examples the cam followers 760 or camrollers 740 may need to be independent of the arm 720 in order to takeadvantage of the substantially vertical movement of the movable frame510.

In another aspect, each latch 40 comprises a dog 700. The dogs 700 areconfigured to engage one or more pallets 10, thereby securing the palletstack 12. In some examples, the dogs 700 may be chamfered in order tofacilitate the engagement of the pallet 10. The orientation of the dogs700 may also depend on the configuration of the pallets 10 used. In thisexample, the dogs 700 extend substantially perpendicularly from the arm720.

The number of latches 40 and their placement on the movable frame 510will depend on the type of pallets used in the facility. Generally, twotypes of pallets are used in the field: two-way and four-way pallets.Two-way pallets are designed so that a pallet transporter 56 can onlyengage the pallet from the front side and the back side of a two-waypallet. Four-way pallets are designed so that a pallet transporter 56such as a pallet jack, hand truck, or forklift can engage the palletfrom any one of its four sides. CHEP, for example, manufactures, leases,and sells four-way pallets to various manufacturing and distributioncompanies.

Referring to FIG. 4A, in the example where the pallet dispenser 2 isused with two-way pallets, the latches should be configured on themovable frame 510 to interface with the front side and the back side ofthe pallet 10. In the example where the movable frame 510 has a frontside 500 and a back side 520, the latches 40 may be configured on thefront side 500 and back side 520 of the movable frame 510 to correspondto the front side and the back side of a two-way pallet. In the examplewhere the movable frame 510 does not have a front side, the latches maybe configured on the back side 520 and the ends of first side 540 andthe second side 560 of the movable frame 510 opposite the back side 520.

For example, in some examples, the front side 400 of the stationarysupport frame 59 and the front side of the movable frame 510 mayinterfere with the ability of the pallet transporter 56 to engage thepallet 10 in the pallet dispenser 2. For instance, the forks of somehand operated pallet trucks may only be slightly longer than the lengthof a pallet. In these scenarios, the front side of the pallet dispenser2 will need to be configured to minimize the interference between thepallet truck and the pallet 10. For instance, in some examples, thefront side 400 of the stationary support frame 59, the front side of themovable frame 510, or both may not be present.

In one example, a pallet transporter 56 may be able to engage a pallet10 when the stationary support frame 59 has a front side 400 but themovable frame 510 does not have a front side 500. In this example, thesecuring device must be configured to secure a pallet stack 12 withoutthe front side 500 of the movable frame 510. In these examples, in orderto secure the front side of a pallet 10 or pallet stack 12, parts of thesecuring device may need to extend from the first side 540 and thesecond side 560 of the movable frame 510. In some examples, the firstside 540 and the second side 560 may have ends located opposite the backside 520 where the parts of the securing device may be attached.

In one example, the securing device comprises one or more latches 40that are configured at the back side 520 of the movable frame 510 and atthe ends of the first side 540 and second side 560 of the movable frame510 located opposite the back side 520. In this example, some of thelatches 40 are configured to extend diagonally from the ends of thefirst side 540 and the second side 560 towards the front of the pallet10 so as to secure the front side of the pallet 10.

In this example, the latches 40 on the ends of the first side 540 andthe second side 560 may be configured as angled arms that extenddiagonally downwards from the movable frame 510 towards the front of thepallet 10 from the end of the first side 540 or the second side 560.Each of the angled arms have a dog 700 configured at the end of theangled arm to engage the front of the pallet 10.

In this example, since the arms extend diagonally towards the front thepallet, the cam follower 760 or cam roller 740 of the latch 40 may beindependent of, but mechanically linked to, the arm. This allows thelatch 40 to take advantage of the substantially vertical motion of themovable frame 510 to secure and release the pallet stack 12. In theexample where the latch 40 has a cam follower 760, the cam follower 760may extend substantially vertically from the end of the first side 540or the second side 560 of the frame of the movable support, whereas thearm extends diagonally from the end of the first side 540 or the secondside 560 of the movable support. In this example, a mechanical linkagesuch as a plate or a connecting rod may connect the arm to the camfollower 760 or cam roller 740. The corresponding cam roller 740 on thesupport frame then interacts with the cam follower 760 to cause thelatch 40 to secure and release the pallet stack 12.

A skilled technician would understand that the configuration of themovable frame 510 and the securing device will depend on the type ofpallet being used. For example, in some environments a four-way pallet,or CHEP pallet, may be used. In the example where latches 40 are used tosecure the pallet stack, the configuration of the latches 40 on themovable frame 510 may be different that the configuration used on apallet dispenser 2 for two-way pallets or flat-board pallets.

For instance, in an example, the pallet dispenser 2 is configured foruse with four-way pallets, the securing devices can be configured onlyon the first side 540 and the second side 560 of the movable frame 510.In this example, the latches 40 can be configured along the first side540 and the second side 560 of the movable frame 510 so as to secure thepallet stack 12 along the sides.

In other example, a pallet dispenser 2 is configured for use withfour-way pallets, and the latches 40 may also be configured along thefront side 500 and the back side 520 of the movable frame 510 so as tosecure the pallet stack 12 on all four sides (of the pallet in thepallet stack 12).

In yet another example, the pallet dispenser 2 (for use with the two-waypallet) may be used with four-way pallets without modification. That is,the pallet dispenser 2 may only secure the front and back of the pallet10. In other example where the pallet dispenser 2 (for use with thetwo-way pallet) secures the sides of the pallet, then the palletdispenser 2 would secure the four-way pallet on the sides of the pallet.

FIG. 4A depicts an example of the movable frame 510 configured to beused with two-way pallets. FIG. 4A depicts an exploded perspective viewof an example of the movable frame 510 of the pallet dispensing system100 of FIG. 1. The latches 40 are configured placed on the movable frame510 to correspond to the openings of a two-way pallet. In this example,this corresponds to the front side 500 and the back side 520 of themovable frame 510.

FIG. 4B depicts the following components: the pallet dispenser 2, thelatch 40, the hydraulic cylinder 52, the closed-loop hydraulic circuit430, the movable frame 510, the dog 700, the arms 720, the cam roller740, the cam follower 760, the cam spring 780 and the counterweightassembly 790. Referring to FIG. 4B, there is depicted instance of avertical bar 791. The vertical bars 791 are configured to prevent thelatches 40 from pivoting outward and are held in place by the hydraulicbrakes at the bottom. The hydraulic brakes are powered from thehydraulic pressure produced from the weight of the pallet stack 12. Whenthe pallet stack 12 touches the floor, the pressure goes to zero, thebrakes release, and the latches 40 are allowed to pivot outward, springsare pulling the dogs 700 (also called the support latches) out from thebottom most positioned pallet positioned in the pallet stack 12.

As depicted in FIG. 4A and partially in FIG. 4B, the closed-loophydraulic circuit 430 includes a check valve not shown and knownconnected to a hydraulic reservoir 450 and a flow control valve (notshown and known) connected to the check valve (known and not depicted).The closed-loop hydraulic circuit 430 includes a hydraulic cylinder 52connected to the flow control valve, and the hydraulic cylinder 52 isconfigured to support and to move (lower) the movable frame 510 havingthe pallet stack 12 to ground level (working surface). In this example,the hydraulic cylinder 52 includes telescoping extendable cylinders thatare configured to telescope (extend) in response to the movement(introduction or removal) of a compression-resistant hydraulic fluid inthe hydraulic cylinder 52.

In other examples, the amount of mechanical kinetic energy used to raisethe pallet stack 12 may be converted, at least in part, to the amount ofmechanical potential energy. The mechanical potential energy may then bestored in the pallet dispenser 2. For the case where the palletdispenser 2 includes a counterweight assembly 790, as depicted in FIG.4B, the counterweight assembly 790 is configured to store at least inpart the amount of mechanical potential energy, and to convert at leastin part the amount of mechanical potential energy to the amount ofmechanical kinetic energy.

As depicted in FIG. 4B, the counterweight assembly 790 is configured toconvert at least in part the amount of mechanical kinetic energy ofmoving the pallet stack 12 to the amount of mechanical potential energy.This mechanical potential energy is then stored, at least in part, asmechanical potential energy by the counterweight assembly 790. Thecounterweight assembly 790 is configured to convert and store at leastin part the amount of energy in a multi-step process. In the first stepof the process, the mechanical kinetic energy used to raise the palletstack 12 can be converted to the amount of mechanical potential energyand stored, at least in part, by the counterweight assembly 790 bypartially raising the counterweight assembly 790 from its initial restposition. As the sequence continues, the counterweight assembly 790 isfurther raised so that the stored amount of mechanical potential energycan be used to move the movable frame 510 from the lowered position 32(also called the pallet-dispensation position) to the raised position 34(also called the pallet-storage position).

Regarding four-way pallets, or CHEP pallets, the configuration of thelatches 40 on the latch 40 spring-loaded may be different from the latch40 for use with the two-way pallet described above. FIG. 4B depicts anexploded perspective view of an alternate example of the movable frame510 of the pallet dispensing system 100 of FIG. 1. The latch 40 depictedin FIG. 4B may be used in an environment using the four-way pallet if sodesired.

As depicted in FIG. 4B, the latches 40 are configured to interface withthe sides of the pallet 11 that are parallel to the direction in whichthe pallet transporter 56 engages the pallet 11. The latches 40 areconfigured placed on the first side 540 and the second side 560 of themovable frame 510.

In another example for use with the four-way pallet, the latches 40 arealso configured positioned along the front side 500 and the back side520 of the movable frame 510 so that the pallet 11 is engaged on allfour sides of the pallet 11. In yet another example, the palletdispenser 2 is for use with the two-way pallet.

The pallet dispenser 2 may be used with the four-way pallet withoutmodification if so desired. That is, the latch 40 configuration of apallet dispenser 2 is configured for two-way pallets, and may in manycircumstances be use four-way pallets without further modification if sodesired.

FIG. 5 depicts a perspective view of an example of the pallet dispenser2 of FIG. 1, having the pallet-stack enclosure 4 presenting an openingthat is oriented orthogonal to the opening of the pallet dispenser 2.FIG. 5 depicts the following components: the pallet dispenser 2, thepallet stack 12, the front side 400, the opening 480 and the hinges 605.

FIG. 6 depicts a flowchart showing an example of a method (variousstates) of a cycle of the pallet dispenser 2 of FIG. 1.

The pallet dispenser 2 operates in a ready raised position 34, a raisedposition 30, and a lowered position 32. The pallet dispenser 2 cyclesfrom the ready raised position 34, to the raised position 30, and thelowered position 32.

In a ready raised position 34, the pallet dispenser 2 waits for thepallet transporter 56 to engage the bottom most positioned pallet in thepallet stack 12.

In a raised position 30, the pallet dispenser 2 waits for separation ofthe bottom pallet from the pallet stack 12 by having the pallettransporter 56 lower the bottom most pallet away from the pallet stack12. The pallet stack 12 is secured to the movable frame 510 while thebottom most pallet in the pallet stack 12 is separable from (not securedto) the pallet stack 12.

In a lowered position 32, the pallet stack 12 is positioned on theworking surface by the pallet transporter 56, and the pallet dispenser 2raises the pallet stack 12 to the ready position 34.

FIGS. 7A to 7H depict schematic example of a sequence of operations ofthe pallet dispenser 2 of FIG. 1. Each of FIGS. 7A to 7H include anupper schematic and a lower schematic, for the purpose of facilitatingan understanding of the examples of the pallet dispenser 2.

Referring now to FIG. 7A, an operational sequence is depicted.

The pallet stack 12 rests on the work surface 8 or any equivalentworking surface. The pallet stack 12 is held in the pallet dispensingsystem 100. Specifically, the pallet stack 12 is latched to the movableframe 510. The movable frame 510 is configured to surround (at least inpart) the pallet stack 12. For the sake of convenience, the pallet stack12 is depicted as being shorter in height than the top section of themovable frame 510. It is understood that the pallet stack 12 may extendvertically beyond the upper section of the movable frame 510. The palletstack 12 includes a series of pallets positioned or stacked verticallyone over the other, one next to the other forming a vertical column ofpallets. The pallet stack 12 includes the pallet 10 that contacts thework surface 8. The pallet 11 is positioned on (and contacts) a topsurface of the pallet 10. The pallet 13 rests on (and contacts) thepallet 11, and so on, etc.

The movable frame 510 is configured to be movable relative to the worksurface 8. The stationary support frame 59 is configured to bestationary relative to the work surface 8 (such as connected to orsecurely mounted to the work surface 8). It will be appreciated thatonly a portion of the stationary support frame 59 is depicted on oneside of the movable frame 510 (for the sake of convenient depiction andexplanation).

The closed-loop hydraulic circuit 430 includes a hydraulic cylinder 52,a hydraulic valve 51 and a hydraulic reservoir 450. The hydraulic valve51 is configured to selectively connect the hydraulic cylinder 52 to thehydraulic reservoir 450 in such a way that for the case where thehydraulic valve 51 is placed in the open state (open position),hydraulic fluid may flow between the hydraulic cylinder 52 and thehydraulic reservoir 450, and for the case where the hydraulic valve 51is placed in the closed state (closed position), hydraulic fluid cannotflow between the hydraulic cylinder 52 and the hydraulic reservoir 450.In the open state, the hydraulic valve 51 is configured to provide arestriction (relatively smaller hydraulic orifice) so that the flow(flow rate, liters per hour) of hydraulic fluid may be moderated. Asdepicted for FIG. 7A, the hydraulic valve 51 is placed in the closedstate so that the hydraulic fluid cannot flow between the hydrauliccylinder 52 and the hydraulic reservoir 450.

The hydraulic cylinder 52 includes opposite ends (a first end and asecond end): the first end of the hydraulic cylinder 52 is securelymounted (operatively coupled) to the work surface 8. The second end ofthe hydraulic cylinder 52 is securely mounted (operatively coupled) tothe movable frame 510. The hydraulic cylinder 52 is configured tomoderate movement (limit speed) of the movable frame 510 along avertical direction relative to the work surface 8. For instance, for thecase where the movable frame 510 is released and is permitted to fall(under the influence of gravity) toward the work surface 8, thehydraulic cylinder 52 is configured to limit the speed of free fall insuch a way that the movable frame 510 does not come crashing down to thework surface 8, and causing unwanted damage to the movable frame 510.During free fall of the movable frame 510, the movable frame 510 pushesagainst the operating rod of the hydraulic cylinder 52 so that thehydraulic fluid in the hydraulic cylinder 52 becomes pushed from thehydraulic cylinder 52, past the hydraulic valve 51 (the hydraulic valve51 presents a flow restriction (flow resistance) which slows down theflow rate of the hydraulic fluid leaving the hydraulic cylinder 52), andinto the hydraulic reservoir 450.

As depicted, for the case where the hydraulic valve 51 is placed in theclosed state, the movable frame 510 cannot be moved because thehydraulic fluid cannot be moved from the hydraulic cylinder 52 to thehydraulic reservoir 450, and for this case, the movable frame 510 issaid to be in a locked (unmovable) position regardless of any forcesapplied to vertically) move the movable frame 510. It is preferred thatthe movable frame 510 is movable along the vertical axis or direction,and not laterally (side to side).

The movable frame 510 is configured to surround the pallet stack 12. Themovable frame 510 includes latches 40 positioned on opposite sides ofthe pallet stack 12. The latches 40 are configured to selectively latchthe movable frame 510 with the pallet stack 12 (with the opposite sidesof the pallet stack 12), between a latched state (latched condition asdepicted in FIG. 7A) and an un-latched condition (an un-latchedposition) as depicted in FIG. 7G.

As depicted in FIG. 7A, the latches 40 latch the pallet 11 of the palletstack 12 with the movable frame 510, so that the movable frame 510 andthe pallet stack 12 are latched or locked together; it will beunderstood that as depicted in FIG. 7A, the pallet 10 is positioned onthe ground, and supports the weight of the pallet stack 12 in this case.

For the case where the hydraulic valve 51 is positioned in the openstate, the weight of the pallet stack 12 keeps (urges) the movable frame510 in a stationary position relative to the work surface 8, and keepsthe movable frame 510 from moving vertically upward away from the worksurface 8.

The spring assembly 54 includes opposite ends: specifically, the springassembly 54 includes a first end configured to be operatively connectedto the movable frame 510. The spring assembly 54 also includes a secondend configured to be operatively connected to the work surface 8. Thespring assembly 54 is configured to provide energy storage andconversion. The spring assembly 54 may also be called an energy-storageassembly. The spring assembly 54 is configured to selectively (directlyor indirectly) convert mechanical kinetic energy into potential energyand vice versa. For example, the spring assembly 54 is configured topush or to move the movable frame 510 back to the position as depictedin FIG. 7A, which is also depicted in FIG. 7H as well. In FIG. 7H, thespring assembly 54 becomes compressed (receives mechanical kineticenergy from the movable frame 510 as the movable frame (510) moves underthe force of gravity under a controlled decent), and the spring assembly54 continues to stay compressed or become compressed as long as thelatches 40 continue to latch the movable frame 510 with the pallet stack12. Once the latches 40 release (release the movable frame 510 from thepallet stack 12), the spring assembly 54 is permitted to expand (becausethe latches have been released), and the spring assembly 54 convertspotential energy (stored energy) into mechanical kinetic energy in sucha way as to vertically move the movable frame 510 away from the worksurface 8. As depicted in FIG. 7A, the spring assembly 54 is in theneutral state (in which no energy stored in the spring assembly 54). Theaction of the spring assembly 54 is described in connection with FIG. 7Fand FIG. 7G.

Referring to FIG. 7A, in accordance with a specific example, the latch40 includes: a cam roller 740, a cam pivot 721, an arm 720, a camfollower 760, and a dog 700. It will be appreciated that the instance ofthe latch 40 is depicted in the above schematic in FIG. 7A (for the sakeof convenience). The dog 700 may be called an arm extension. The camfollower 760 is provided by the arm 720. The cam roller 740 is fixedlyconnected to the stationary support frame 59, and rollably contacts thecam follower 760 provided by the arm 720. The cam pivot 721 isoperatively connected to the movable frame 510. The arm 720 is pivotallyconnected to the cam pivot 721 in such a way that the arm 720 isconfigured to pivot relative to the movable frame 510 between a latchingstate or a latching condition (as depicted in FIG. 7A), and anon-latching state or a non-latching condition as depicted in FIG. 7G.The arm 720 is configured to move relative to the cam roller 740 inresponse to vertical movement of the movable frame 510 in such a waythat contact between the cam roller 740 and the cam follower 760 isoperatively maintained. The dog 700 extends from the arm 720, at a lowerportion of the arm 720. The dog 700 is configured to selectively engagea pallet of the pallet stack 12. For the case where the latch 40 isplaced in the latched position (FIG. 7A), the dog 700 engages thepallet, such as the pallet 11. For the case where the latch 40 is placedin the un-latched position (FIG. 7G), the dog 700 does not engage (notlatch) the pallet, such as the pallet 11.

Referring to FIG. 7A, the spring assembly 54 (which is an example of arising device) is configured to apply a vertical lifting force to themovable frame 510, and the vertical lifting force is large enough tovertically lift the movable frame 510 upwardly away from the worksurface 8. However, the movable frame 510 moves vertically upwardly andonce the movable frame 510 engages with the pallet stack 12 (via thedogs 700 of the latches 40), the lifting force provided by the springassembly 54 is not large enough to continue to vertically lift both thecombined weight of the movable frame 500 and the pallet stack 12upwardly and away from the working surface 8. As depicted in FIG. 7A,once the movable frame 510 moves vertically and engages (becomeslatched) with the pallet stack 12, the movable frame 510 remainsstationary relative to the pallet stack 12 while the lifting force ofthe spring assembly 54 continues to be applied to the movable frame 510,while the weight of the pallet stack 12 continues to overcome or defeatthe lifting force provided by the spring assembly 54 to the movableframe 510.

Referring now to FIG. 7B, the next operational sequence is depicted.

The hydraulic valve 51 is placed in the open state, so that thehydraulic fluid may flow between the hydraulic reservoir 450 and thehydraulic cylinder 52 in response to vertical movement of the movableframe 510 (to be caused by the pallet transporter 56, which is notdepicted in FIG. 7B but is depicted in FIG. 7C). For the case where thehydraulic valve 51 is placed in the open state and the movable frame 510is not urged to be moved, then the fluid does not flow between thehydraulic reservoir 450 and the hydraulic cylinder 52. Once thehydraulic valve 51 is placed in the open state, and the movable frame510 is free to fall (under influence of gravity) so that the dog 700contacts the lower section of the pallet 11.

Referring now to FIG. 7C, the next operational sequence is depicted.

The pallet transporter 56 is moved into the pallet 10. The pallet 10defines an opening configured to receive the forks of the pallettransporter 56. The pallet transporter 56 is now ready to verticallylift the pallet stack 12 (and the movable frame 510) away from the worksurface 8. As depicted, the pallet transporter 56 is ready to lift thepallet stack 12 and the movable frame 510 (since the pallet stack 12 andthe movable frame 510 are latched together by the latches 40).

Referring now to FIG. 7D, the next operational sequence is depicted.

The spring assembly 54 is configured to apply the lifting force to themovable frame 510, and the lifting force is not large enough to lift themovable frame 510 vertically upwards away from the work surface 8 whilethe movable frame 510 remains engaged (latched) with the pallet stack 12(via the dogs 700 of the latches 40), because the weight of the palletstack 12 overcomes the lifting force applied by the spring assembly 54to the movable frame 510. The lifting force provided by the springassembly 54 is not large enough to vertically lift the combined weightof the movable frame 500 and the pallet stack 12 upwardly and away fromthe working surface 8. However, once the pallet transported 56 isengaged with the pallet 10 (with the lower most pallet of the palletstack 12), the pallet transporter 56 is used to apply just enoughvertical lifting force to the pallet stack 12 in such a way that thecombination of the lifting force provided by the spring assembly 54 andthe lifting force provided by the pallet transporter 56 (in combination)are applied to the combination of the movable frame 510 and the palletstack 12. The combined lifting force from both the spring assembly 54and the pallet transporter 56 is enough to vertically lift thecombination of the movable frame 510 and the pallet stack 12 upwardlyaway from the working surface 8. Therefore, the movable frame 510 isconfigured to movably hold, at least in part, the pallet stack 12between the pallet-storage position and the pallet-dispensationposition. The movable frame 510 is also configured to hold the palletstack 12 relative to the pallet transporter 56 in such a way that thepallet transporter 56 is permitted to vertically lift the pallet stack12 as the movable frame (510) is provided with vertical-lift assistance;the vertical-lift assistance may be provided, for example, from thespring assembly 54). In accordance with an option, the raising device(such as the spring assembly 54) is configured to vertically lift themovable frame 510 away from the pallet-dispensation position toward thepallet-storage position while the pallet transporter 56 is permitted tovertically lift the pallet stack 12. In accordance with an option, theraising device (such as the spring assembly 54 may be electricallyunpowered if so desired. For the case where the riser assembly or thespring assembly 54 is electrically unpowered, a technical advantage isthat the apparatus may operate relatively faster than for the case whereelectrical power is used to vertically lift the movable frame 510.

The hydraulic valve 51 is in the open state. The pallet transporter 56vertically lifts the pallet 10 away from the work surface 8, thuslifting the pallet stack 12 and the movable frame 510 vertically abovethe work surface 8 because movable frame 510 is latched to the palletstack 12 by way of the latch 40. The pallet transporter 56 does the workof vertically lifting the pallet stack 12 The movable frame 510 pulls onthe rod of the hydraulic cylinder 52, and since the hydraulic valve 51is placed in the open state, then the hydraulic fluid flows from thehydraulic reservoir 450 to the hydraulic cylinder 52, thus filling thehydraulic cylinder 52 with additional hydraulic fluid. As the palletstack 12 is moved vertically upward, and the latch 40 continues tocontact the bottom section of the pallet 11 as the pallet stack 12 isvertically lifted away from the work surface 8. As depicted, for thecase where the pallet stack 12 is vertically lifted, the latch 40transfers the weight of the movable frame 510 to the pallet 11 of thepallet stack 12; and for this case, the weight of the pallet stack 12 isfully supported by the pallet transporter 56. The arm 720 is alsovertically moved while the cam roller 740 remains stationary relative tothe movement of the cam arm 7. Referring now to FIG. 7G, the nextoperational sequence is depicted.

Referring now to FIG. 7E, the next operational sequence is depicted.

The hydraulic valve 51 is placed in a closed state. In this case, thefluid cannot flow out from the hydraulic cylinder 52, and so thehydraulic cylinder 52 is locked up and cannot move. The movable frame510, as well, cannot move since the rod of the cylinder cannot move.Now, the pallet transporter 56 moves the pallet 10 vertically down andaway from the pallet stack 12, vertically downward towards the worksurface 8. This is done in such a way that a clearance gap is formedbetween the top of pallet 10 and the bottom of pallet 11. The pallettransporter 56 lowers the pallet 10 while pallet 11 remains latched tothe movable frame 510, with the rest of the pallet stack 12 resting onpallet 11. The weight of the movable frame 510 and the pallet stack 12is supported by the hydraulic cylinder 52. Since there is no fluidflowing from the hydraulic cylinder 52, the hydraulic cylinder 52 islocked, and keeps the movable frame 510 from falling vertically towardthe work surface 8. For the case depicted in FIG. 7E, gravity cannotovercome the force of the hydraulic cylinder 52 that acts to push or tomaintain the position of the movable frame 510 in a stationary positionrelative to the stationary support frame 59. Thus, the movable frame 510and pallet stack 12 remain in static position, hanging above the worksurface 8.

Referring now to FIG. 7F, the next operational sequence is depicted.

The hydraulic valve 51 remains in the closed state, there is no flow offluid between the hydraulic cylinder 52 and the hydraulic reservoir 450,and the hydraulic cylinder 52 remains in a locked state and supports theweight of the movable frame 510 and the pallet stack 12 while the pallettransporter 56 is moved entirely away from the movable frame 510. Aphotocell (not depicted and known) may be used to detect that the pallettransporter 56 is no longer present in the movable frame 510. The signalfrom the photocell may be used to initiate the opening of the hydraulicvalve 51 (depicted in FIG. 7G). As depicted in FIG. 7F, the movableframe 510 is held in the static (stationary) position above groundbecause the hydraulic valve 51 is closed, thus locking out movement ofthe movable frame 510.

Referring now to FIG. 7G, the next operational sequence is depicted.

The hydraulic valve 51 is placed in the open state, and the weight ofthe movable frame 510 and the pallet stack 12 push against the rod ofthe hydraulic cylinder 52 and thus the hydraulic fluid in the hydrauliccylinder 52 is urged to flow toward the hydraulic valve 51, through thehydraulic valve 51 and into the hydraulic reservoir 450. The hydraulicvalve 51 presents a restricted orifice to the flow of hydraulic fluid,thus slowing down or moderating the flow of hydraulic fluid from thehydraulic cylinder 52 to the hydraulic reservoir 450. In the thismanner, resistance or an opposing force is applied to the downwardmovement of the movable frame 510 and the pallet stack 12, thus slowingdown the vertical decent of the movable frame 510 and the pallet stack12 toward the work surface 8, thereby avoiding free fall under gravity.The opposing force provided by the hydraulic cylinder 52 cannot overcomethe force of gravity acting on the movable frame 510 and the palletstack 12.

Once the movable frame 510 vertically falls toward the work surface 8,the movable frame pushes on the spring assembly 54 and thus the movableframe 510 compresses the spring assembly 54. In this case, the springassembly 54 stores energy (becomes compressed). The spring assembly 54becomes compressed and stores potential kinetic energy received from themovable frame 510. The potential energy stored by the spring assembly 54will be used (at least in part) in FIG. 7G to vertically lift themovable frame 510 away from the work surface 8. The spring assembly 54is used later in the process of de-latching and positioning the movableframe 510 as depicted in FIG. 7A.

In accordance with one option, the hydraulic valve 51 is configured suchthat the hydraulic valve 51 is placed in the open state only when thepallet 10 and the pallet transporter 56 become completely cleared fromthe movable frame 510. With this option, the operator of the pallettransporter 56 may take their time to remove the pallet transporter 56away from the movable frame 510 since the movable frame 510 for thiscase remains static or stationary (hanging above the work surface 8)until the hydraulic valve 51 is placed in the open state.

In accordance with another option, the hydraulic valve 51 is configuredto be placed in the open state automatically once the pallet transporter56 begins to move away from the movable frame 510. It is understood thatin this case the operator of the pallet transporter 56 must havesufficient skill to move the pallet transporter 56 and the pallet 10away from the movable frame 510 as quickly as possible since the movableframe 510 has begun its vertical controlled decent, and it would bedesired to avoid collision between the descending movable frame 510 andthe pallet transporter 56 (naturally). It is understood that the movableframe 510 is allowed to descend to ground (in a controlled free fall)because fluid flows from the hydraulic cylinder 52 to the hydraulicreservoir 450 since the hydraulic valve 51 is placed in the opencondition. As the movable frame 510 vertically descends toward the worksurface 8, the latches 40 become de-latched from pallet 11 as the palletstack 12 and movable frame 510 are moved toward the working surface. Thelatches 40 pivot away from the pallet 11. Specifically, the cam follower760 allows the cam roller 740 to pivot the arm 720. The cam follower 760causes automatic de-latching of the latch 40 as the movable frame 510moves or descends toward the work surface 8. The spring assembly 54 hasstored potential energy, ready to be used to lift the movable frame 510once the latches 40 are placed in the un-latched condition (as depictedin FIG. 7G). Once the latches 40 are placed in the un-latched state, themovable frame 510 is pushed by the spring assembly 54 verticallyupwardly and away from the work surface 8.

Referring now to FIG. 7H, the next operational sequence is depicted.

The spring assembly 54 has stored potential energy, ready to be used tolift the movable frame 510 once the latches 40 are placed in theun-latched condition (as depicted in FIG. 7G). Once the latches 40 areplaced in the un-latched state, the movable frame 510 is pushed by thespring assembly 54 vertically upwardly and away from the work surface 8.Once de-latching occurs, the spring assembly 54 changes state from thecompressed state to neutral state and thus the spring assembly 54expends energy to lift the movable frame 510 vertically upwardly awayfrom the work surface 8. The movable frame 510 moves vertically upwardby force received from spring assembly 54. The spring assembly 54expends kinetic energy that moves the movable frame 510 upwardly whilethe pallet stack 12 remains stationary on the work surface 8. Once themovable frame 510 moves vertically up and away from the work surface 8,the latches 40 securely engage pallet 13, and then the pallet 11 isavailable for removal from the bottom section of the pallet stack 12.The spring assembly 54 reaches the neutral state (not biased or notstoring potential energy). The hydraulic valve 51 remains in the openstate so that hydraulic fluid is ready to flow between the hydrauliccylinder 52 and the hydraulic reservoir 450 for the next dispensingcycle. The movable frame 510 held in a static position. The movableframe 510 remains at rest on the pallet stack 12, and the pallet stack12 rests on the work surface 8. The cycle is ready to begin for theremoval of pallet 11 once required to do so.

FIG. 7I depicts the operational sequence for inserting a pallet into thepallet dispenser 2.

The pallet transporter 56 (not depicted), enters the pallet dispenser 2with the pallet 21 positioned on the pallet 19. The pallet 19 ispositioned on the pallet 17. The pallet 17 is positioned on the pallet15. The pallet 15 is then positioned on the pallet 13 located in thepallet dispenser 2.

To summarize (in view of FIGS. 7A to 7I), the pallet dispensing system(100) includes the movable frame (510) configured to movably hold, atleast in part, the pallet stack (12) between the pallet-storage positionand the pallet-dispensation position. The movable frame (510) is alsoconfigured to hold a pallet (10) of the pallet stack (12) relative to apallet transporter (56) in such a way that the pallet transporter (56)is permitted to vertically lift the pallet stack (12) and allow themovable frame (510) to travel upwards because of the spring force (orother force provided by another device). The pallet dispensing system(100) also includes a dampening device configured to dampen, at least inpart, free-fall descent of the movable frame (510) under influence ofgravity from the pallet-storage position toward the pallet-dispensationposition. Since the pallet transporter (56) lifts the pallet stack (12),a taller instance of the pallet stack 12 may be possible. In accordancewith an option, the pallet dispensing system (100) is adapted such thatthe movable frame (510) is configured to movably hold the pallet stack(12) having the pallet (10) between the pallet-storage position and thepallet-dispensation position without consuming electrical energy, andthe dampening device is configured to dampen free-fall descent of themovable frame (510) under influence of gravity from the pallet-storageposition toward the pallet-dispensation position without consumingelectrical energy.

In general terms, in view of FIGS. 7A to 7I, an apparatus includes apallet dispensing system (100). The pallet dispensing system (100)includes a movable frame (510) configured to movably hold, at least inpart, a pallet stack (12) between a pallet-storage position and apallet-dispensation position. The movable frame (510) is also configuredto hold a pallet (10) of the pallet stack (12) relative to a pallettransporter (56) in such a way that the pallet transporter (56) ispermitted to vertically lift the pallet stack (12) and allow the movableframe (510) to travel upwards because of the spring force (or otherforce provided by another device).

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example of the pallet dispenser 2 ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 8 depicts the following components: the pallet dispenser 2, thepallet-stack enclosure 4, the pipes 18, the front side 400, the cotterpins 495, the hinge 490, the hinges 605, and the solid walls 630. Therestraints can also include solid walls 630 and mesh walls (not shown).In yet another example, the restraints can include webbing (not shown)that is detachably connected to the instances of the support 600.

In some examples, as shown in FIG. 8, the front side of the palletdispenser 2 (i.e., the front side of the movable 510 and stationarysupport frame 59) may need to open so that the pallet dispenser 2 can beserviced or reloaded with additional pallets 10. In this example, thefront side 400 of the stationary support frame 59 may comprise one ormore hinges 490 so that the front side of the stationary support frame59 can be opened like a door. The hinges 490 may be between the frontside 400 of the stationary support frame 59 and either of the first side440 or the second side 460 of the stationary support frame 59.

A locking device for ensuring that the hinged front side of thestationary support frame 59 does not open when the pallet dispenser 2 isin operation may also be provided. In this example, locking pins such ascotter pins 495 may be used to secure the hinged front side 400 of thestationary support frame 59. The locking pin would typically bepositioned at the opposite side of the hinge 490.

A skilled technician would understand that alternate means for securingthe front 400 of the stationary support frame 59 could be used withoutdeparting from the scope of this disclosure. For example, a lockinglatch, sliding bolt, or cam roller and follower could be used to ensurethat the front 400 of the stationary support frame 59 does not openwhile the pallet dispenser 2 is in operation.

In some example, the movable frame 510 may also comprise a front side500. In the embodiment where the front side 400 of the stationarysupport frame 59 opens, the front side of the movable frame 510 may alsoopen. In this example, the front side 400 of the movable frame wouldoperate much in the same way as the front side 400 of the stationarysupport frame 59, as discussed above.

In another embodiment, the pallet dispenser 2 comprises one or moredampeners to control the rate at which the movable frame 510 transitionsfrom the raised to the lowered state. In some examples, the dampenersslow the lowering of the movable frame 510 and pallet stack 12 toprevent damage to the pallets 10 or the work surface 8. In otherexamples, the dampeners may be adjustable so that the rate at which themovable frame 510 transitions to the lowered state 32 can be adjusted.

In this example, the dampeners are one or more telescoping hydrauliccylinders 52 fillable with a compression-resistant fluid that isconnected to a closed-loop hydraulic circuit 430. The closed-loophydraulic circuit 430 further comprises a hydraulic reservoir 450 forstoring a compression-resistant hydraulic fluid for the telescopinghydraulic cylinders 52. A skilled technician would understand thatdifferent means of dampening the transition could be used withoutdeparting from the scope of this disclosure. For example, a ratchetingmechanism could be used to dampen the rate at which the pallet dispenser2 transitions from the raised state 30 to the lowered state 32.

In an example, one or more telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 areconnected to a hydraulic reservoir 450 in a closed-loop hydrauliccircuit 430. The closed-loop hydraulic circuit 430 contains acompression-resistant or non-compressible fluid that is used to slow thelowering of the pallet dispenser 2 from the raised position 30 to thelowered position 32. In this example, as the movable frame 510transitions to the raised state, compression-resistant fluid is drawnfrom the hydraulic reservoir 450 into the one or more telescopinghydraulic cylinders 52 through the closed-loop hydraulic circuit 430. Inthis example, the negative pressure created in the telescoping hydrauliccylinders 52 as the movable frame 510 is raised causes the fluid to bedrawn into the telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 from the hydraulicreservoir 450 through the closed-loop hydraulic circuit 430. Thetelescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 are configured to draw thecompression-resistant hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic reservoir 450to the telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 without allowing the fluid toflow back into the reservoir. In this example, a one-way valve or acheck valve is used. When the movable frame 510 is in the raisedposition 30 the telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 should containsufficient compression-resistant fluid to support the weight of themovable frame 510 and the pallet stack 12.

In this example, the use of a compression-resistant hydraulic fluid waspreferred as the fluid does not compress and act like a spring whenpressure or the weight of the pallet stack 12 is applied. This helps tocontrol the motion of the movable frame 510 and pallet stack 12, andprevents the rebounding of the movable frame 510 and pallet stack 12when the end of their motion is reached. In this example, a relativelylower viscosity food grade oil was used as the compression-resistanthydraulic fluid. A skilled technician would understand that other fluidscould be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Forinstance, water or very light, low viscosity oils could also be used inthe system depending on the environment.

The weight of the movable frame 510 and the pallet stack 12 is used tolower the pallet stack 12 and the movable frame 510 to the loweredposition 32. In this example, the weight of the movable frame 510 andthe pallet stack 12 exerts pressure on the telescoping hydrauliccylinders 52. This pressure is used to drain the hydraulic fluid in thetelescoping cylinders through one or more drain means (not shown) oneach of the telescoping cylinders. Generally the rate at which hydraulicfluid drains from the telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 allows for thepallet stack 12 and movable frame 510 to lower at a slower rate than thepallet transporter 56 can lower the one or more pallets 10 to be removedfrom the pallet dispenser 2.

In some examples, the drain means may be conduit, tubing, or piping forreturning the compression-resistant hydraulic fluid to the hydraulicreservoir 450. The design and diameter of the conduit, tubing, or pipingused will depend on the desired hydraulic fluid drain rate.

In some examples, the rate at which the telescoping hydraulic cylinders52 are drained can be adjusted so that the pallet stack 12 and movableframe 510 lower at a slower rate than the pallet transporter 56. In someexamples, the closed-loop hydraulic circuit 430 uses a flow controllersuch as a flow control valve to adjust the rate at which the hydraulicfluid flows to the hydraulic reservoir 450. Other means of restrictingthe flow, such as an orifice, or using conduit or piping that allows forthe telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 to drain at a slower rate thanthe lowering rate of a particular model or type of the pallettransporter 56 could be used without departing from the scope of thisdisclosure.

In another example, the movable frame 510 remains in the raised position30 until a state change event is triggered. In this example, thedraining means may comprise a drain valve for holding thecompression-resistant hydraulic fluid in the telescoping hydrauliccylinders 52 until a drain valve is opened. This allows the movableframe 510 and pallet stack 12 to be held in the raised position 30 untilit is appropriate for the movable frame 510 and pallet stack 12 to belowered. In some examples, the pallet dispenser 2 may comprise an armattached to the drain valve and configured between the pallet stack 12and the one or more pallets 10 to be removed from the pallet dispenser2. When the arm is between the bottom-most pallet 10 and the palletstack 12, the drain valve is closed and hydraulic fluid is held in thetelescoping hydraulic cylinders 52. This keeps the pallet stack 12 andthe movable frame 510 in the raised position 30. As the pallettransporter 56 lowers the bottom-most pallet 10, gravity causes the armto pivot and open the valve, thereby allowing hydraulic fluid to drainfrom the telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 and lowering the movableframe 510 to the lowered position 32. In alternate embodiments the armmay be configured to pivot and open the valve when the pallet 10 isremoved from the pallet dispenser 2.

In an alternate embodiment, the user may manually operate the drainvalve. In this example, an actuating means such as a pull cord, lever,or dial is provided that allows the operator to open the valve and drainthe hydraulic fluid from the telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52, therebytransitioning the movable frame 510 to the lowered position 32.

In some examples, the pallet dispensing cycle is complete when themovable frame 510 is in the lowered state 32. In other examples,however, it may be preferable for the movable frame 510 to secure thepallet stack 12 before the movable frame 510 begins transitioning to theraised state 30. In another embodiment, a raising means is provided totransition the movable frame 510 from the lowered state to a readyraised position 34. In this ready raised position 34, the movable frame510 secures the pallet stack 12 so that when the movable frame 510 is inthe raised state 30, one or more pallets 10 can be separated from thepallet stack 12. In some examples, the ready raised position 34 isdefined to be between the raised 30 and lowered 32 states.

In an example, when the movable frame 510 is in the lowered state 32,the securing device releases the pallet stack 12. Once released, theraising device is used to transition the movable frame 510 from thelowered state 32 to the ready raised position 34. When the movable frame510 is in the ready raised position 34, the pallet stack 12 isre-secured so that one or more pallets 10 can be separated from thepallet stack 12 when the movable frame 510 is in the raised state 30.

In some examples, one or more elastic objects can be used to raise themovable frame 510 from the lowered state 32 to the ready raised position34. For example, springs could be used that, when subjected only to theweight of the movable frame 510, have an un-sprung position thatcorresponds to the ready raised position 34. In this example, one ormore cylinders (not depicted) containing a compressible gas or fluid isused to (configured to) raise the movable frame 510 to the ready raisedposition 34. These cylinders act as springs that, when subjected only tothe weight of the movable frame 510, have a natural rest position thatcorresponds to the ready raised position 34 of the pallet dispenser 2.Examples of cylinders containing a compressible gas include, and are notlimited to, gas shocks. These gas shocks are used to raise the movableframe 510 to the ready raised position 34. In this example,corresponding gas shocks are provided for each hydraulic cylinder 52used in the pallet dispenser 2.

A skilled technician would understand that alternate elastic objectscould be used to raise the movable frame 510 to the ready raisedposition 34 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Forinstance, springs could be connected to the stationary support frame 59and the top of the movable frame 510 so that when the pallet stack isunsecured the springs pull the movable frame 510 to the ready raisedposition 34. In an alternate embodiment, a counterweight, pulley, andcable system could be used to raise the movable frame to the readyraised position 34.

In another embodiment of the system aspect, a pallet transporter 56 isused to transport pallets and to transition the pallet dispenser 2 (andmovable frame 510) from the ready 34 or lowered position 32 to theraised position 30. The pallet transporter 56 engages a pallet 10,raises the pallet stack 12 to a raised position 30, and removes one ormore pallets 10 from the pallet dispenser 2. Examples of the pallettransporter 56 include pallet trucks, pallet jacks, and forklifts. Askilled technician would understand that alternate devices suitable forpallet handling could also be used without departing from the scope ofthis disclosure. For example, the pallet transport could be a conveyoror gravity roller having a rising platform.

In this embodiment of the system, the pallet transporter 56 provides theenergy input for raising the pallet stack 12 and thereby transitioningthe pallet dispenser 2 to the raised state 30. Gravity is used totransition the pallet dispenser 2 to the lowered state. In someexamples, the weight of the pallet stack 12 and the movable frame 510 isused to transition the pallet dispenser 2 to the lowered state. In thisexample, the system does not require any other source of energy input tooperate. For example, pumps, motors, sources of compressed air,generators, or other means to power a system are not required in thisexample.

In another example, the pallet dispensing system comprises apallet-stack enclosure 4. The pallet-stack enclosure 4 prevents thepallet stack 12 from tipping, collapsing, or falling. In an example, thepallet-stack enclosure 4 comprises supports 600 attached to the top ofthe pallet dispenser 2. Restraints are configured between the supportsto prevent the pallet stack from tipping, collapsing, or falling. In anexample, the restraints are gates 14 or doors 16. In other examples, therestraints may be solid walls 630 (as depicted in FIG. 8) or mesh walls620 walls (as depicted in FIG. 1). In another example, the restraintsare webbing that are detachably connected to the supports 600 (FIG. 1).

In yet another example as shown in FIG. 8, the restraints are one ormore bars or pipes 18 connected to the supports 600 via the hinges 605,the bars or pipes 18 being substantially the height of the supports 600.

FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of an example of the pallet-stackenclosure 4.

FIG. 9 depicts the following components: the pallet-stack enclosure 4,the hinges 605, and the pipes 18.

In the example as shown in FIG. 9, the restraints are one or more barsor pipes 18 connected to the supports 600 via the hinges 605, the barsor pipes 18 being substantially the height of the supports 600.

In these examples, the restraints are movable or removable so thatpallets 10 can be added to the pallet stack 12. In some examples, onlyone of the restraints is movable so that pallets can be added to thepallet stack. In this example, shown in FIG. 5, the movable restraint isconfigured so as to not interfere with the pallet transporter 56. Thisallows the pallet dispenser 2 to be used while pallets 10 are beingadded to the pallet stack 12. For example, using the hinged instance ofthe pipe 18 (the restraint) provided above, the hinged pipe 18 (therestraint) can be configured between the front instance of the support600 and the back instance of the support 600 of the pallet-stackenclosure 4 on the right side of the pallet dispenser 2 (the hinges 605for the pipe 18 (the pipe restraint or restraint) are shown in FIG. 5).This allows pallets 10 to be added to the pallet stack 12 from the sideof the assembly while a pallet 10 is being dispensed through the frontopening 480 of the pallet dispenser 2.

Depending on the installation requirements, the pallet-stack enclosure 4and pallet dispenser 2 may be modular. In the examples shown in FIG. 1,the pallet dispenser 2 and the pallet-stack enclosure 4 combine into asingle unit and are inseparable. In another example, as shown in FIGS.5, 8, and 9, the pallet-stack enclosure 4 and the pallet dispenser 2 aremodular and can be separated. FIG. 9 shows the pallet-stack enclosure 4independent of the pallet dispenser 2. This modularity allows fordifferent types of the pallet dispenser 2 and of the pallet-stackenclosure 4 to be used depending, for example, on the environment orstyle of pallet (two-way pallet or four-way pallet) used.

In view of the foregoing description, the following clauses are providedto summarize the above detailed description:

Clause (1): a method is provided for dispensing pallets. An unpoweredpallet dispenser 2 contains a stack of pallets. A pallet transporter 56such as a pallet jack engages a pallet in the pallet stack 12. In someexamples, the pallet transporter 56 may engage the bottom pallet of thepallet stack 12. The pallet transporter 56 then raises the pallet stack12. The pallet dispenser 2 secures the pallet stack 12 such that one ormore pallets, including the pallet engaged by the pallet transporter 56,can be separated from the pallet stack 12. The pallet transporter 56then lowers the one or more pallets such that the one or more palletsare separated from the pallet stack 12. Once separated, the one or morepallets can be removed from the pallet dispenser 2. The pallet dispenser2 then uses the weight of the pallet stack 12 to lower the pallet stack12 so that the pallet stack 12 can be engaged by the pallet transporter56. In those examples where the pallet transporter 56 engages the bottompallet, the pallet stack 12 is lowered to the work surface 8. In someexamples, the work surface 8 is the floor.

Clause (2): an unpowered pallet dispenser 2 is provided. The unpoweredpallet dispenser 2 includes a stationary support frame 59 and movableframe 510 for securing a pallet stack 12. The stationary support frame59 supports the movable frame 510. The movable frame 510 has a raisedposition 30 and a lowered position 32. A pallet transporter 56 is usedto raise the movable frame 510 to its raised position 30. When themovable frame 510 is in the raised position 30 one or more pallets canbe separated from the pallet stack 12 by the pallet transporter 56. Theone or more pallets can then be removed by the pallet transporter 56.The weight of the movable frame 510 and the pallet stack 12 is then usedto lower the movable frame 510 to the lowered position 32.

Clause (3): a system is provided for dispensing pallets. The systemincludes an unpowered pallet dispenser 2, a pallet enclosure, and apallet transporter 56.

Clause (4): a method for dispensing pallets is provided. The methodincludes engaging a pallet stack 12 stored in an unpowered palletdispenser 2 using a pallet transporter 56. The unpowered palletdispenser 2 includes a raised state 30 and a lowered state 32, and asecuring mechanism configured to releasably secure the pallet stack 12.The pallet transporter 56 is configured to raise and lower a load (apallet stack 12). The method also includes raising the pallet stack 12using the pallet transporter 56. The unpowered pallet dispenser 2transitioning to a raised state 30 when the pallet stack 12 is raised.The method further includes securing the pallet stack 12 using thesecuring mechanism so that one or more pallets are separable from thepallet stack 12. The method further includes separating one or morepallets from the pallet stack 12 by lowering the pallet transporter 56.The method further includes removing the one or more pallets from thepallet dispenser 2 using the pallet transporter 56. The method furtherincludes lowering the pallet stack 12 using the weight of the palletstack 12. The unpowered pallet dispenser 2 transitions to a loweredstate 32 when the pallet stack 12 is lowered.

Clause (4): the step of securing may include securing the pallet stack12 immediately above the one or more pallets to be separated from thepallet stack.

Clause (5): the securing device may include one or more spring-loadedlatches for releasably securing the pallet stack 12.

Clause (6): the lowering of the pallet stack 12 may be dampened usingone or more dampeners.

Clause (7): the one or more dampeners may include one or more hydrauliccylinders fillable with a compression-resistant fluid contained in aclosed-loop hydraulic circuit 430.

Clause (8): the pallet dispenser 2 may secure the pallet stack 12 beforethe pallet stack 12 is raised.

Clause (9): the unpowered pallet dispenser 2 may include raisers fortransitioning the unpowered pallet dispenser 2 to a ready state afterthe lowered state 32 where the pallet stack 12 is secured so that one ormore pallets are separable from the pallet stack 12 when the unpoweredpallet dispenser 2 is in the raised state 30.

Clause (10): the raisers may include one or more cylinders filled with acompressible gas.

Clause (11): the pallet dispenser 2 may secure the pallet stack 12 whilethe pallet stack 12 is being raised.

Clause (12): the pallet dispenser 2 may secure the pallet stack 12 afterthe pallet stack 12 is raised but before the pallet stack 12 is lowered.

Clause (13): the pallet stack 12 may be lowered while the one or morepallets are removed from the pallet dispenser 2 using the pallettransporter 56.

Clause (14): the pallet stack 12 may be lowered after the one or morepallets are removed from the pallet dispenser 2 using the pallettransporter 56.

Clause (15): a pallet dispenser 2 is provided. The pallet dispenser 2includes a stationary support frame 59 having a front side, a back side,and a first side and a second side. The front side, the back side, andfirst side and the second side form an enclosure enclosing a palletstack 12. The stationary support frame 59 is configured to allow for atleast one pallet to be removed from the pallet stack 12 through at leastone of the sides of the stationary support frame 59. The palletdispenser 2 also includes a movable frame 510 that is movably connectedto the stationary support frame 59. The movable frame 510 is movablebetween a raised position 30 and a lowered position 32. The movableframe 510 includes a securing device configured to releasably secure thepallet stack 12 so that one or more pallets are separable from thepallet stack 12 when the movable frame 510 is raised to the raisedposition 30. The movable frame 510 transitioning to a lowered position32 when the one or more pallets have been separated from the palletstack 12. Wherein a pallet transporter 56 is used to raise the movableframe 510 to the raised position 30 and to remove the at least onepallet from the stationary support frame 59 and movable frame 510.

Clause (16): the securing device may include one or more latches forengaging one or more pallets in the pallet stack 12.

Clause (16): the pallet stack 12 may be secured by having the one ormore latches engage the pallet immediately above the bottom pallet inthe pallet stack 12.

Clause (17): the latch 40 may include an arm 720 hingedly connected tothe movable frame 510. A spring connects the arm 720 to the movableframe 510. A dog 700 is connected to the arm 720 for engaging the palletstack 12. The arm 720 is configured to interact with the stationarysupport frame 59 so that when the movable frame 510 is raised to theraised position 30, the dog 700 engages the pallet stack 12. When themovable frame 510 is in the lowered position 32 the dog 700 disengagesthe pallet stack 12.

Clause (18): the pallet dispenser 2 may include one or more dampeningdevices for dampening the lowering of the pallet stack 12 when themovable frame 510 transitions from the raised position 30 to the loweredposition 32.

Clause (19): the dampening device may include an adjustment device foradjusting the rate at which the movable frame 510 transitions from theraised position 30 to the lowered position 32.

Clause (20): the one or more dampening devices may include one or moretelescoping hydraulic cylinders 52. The one or more telescopinghydraulic cylinders 52 are fillable with a compression-resistanthydraulic fluid. A hydraulic circuit 58 contains a compression-resistanthydraulic fluid. The one or more telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 arein fluid communication with the hydraulic circuit 58. As the movableframe 510 is raised, the one or more telescoping hydraulic cylinders 52are filled with the compression-resistant hydraulic fluid from thehydraulic circuit 58. As the movable frame 510 is lowered, thecompression-resistant hydraulic fluid drains from the one or moretelescoping hydraulic cylinders 52 to the hydraulic circuit 58.

Clause (21): the pallet dispenser 2 may include a raising device forraising the movable frame 510 from the lowered position 32 to a readyposition. The ready position is configured between the raised position30 and lowered position 32. The securing device secures the pallet stack12 when the movable frame 510 is in the ready position.

Clause (22): the raising device may include one or more telescopinghydraulic cylinders 52 filled with a compressible gas.

Clause (23): a system for dispensing pallets is provided. The systemincludes a pallet transporter 56 for raising and transporting one ormore pallets, a pallet dispenser 2 for dispensing pallets; and apallet-stack enclosure 4 for enclosing a pallet stack 12.

Clause (24): a method for dispensing pallets, and the method includes:operation (A), including engaging a pallet stack 12 stored in anunpowered pallet dispenser 2 using a pallet transporter 56. Theunpowered pallet dispenser 2 includes a raised state 30 and a loweredstate 32, and a securing mechanism for releasably securing the palletstack 12, and the pallet transporter 56 capable of raising and loweringa load. Operation (B), including raising the pallet stack 12 using thepallet transporter 56, the unpowered pallet dispenser 2 transitioning toa raised state 30 when the pallet stack 12 is raised. Operation (C),including securing the pallet stack 12 using the securing mechanism sothat one or more pallets are separable from the pallet stack 12.Operation (D), including separating one or more pallets from the palletstack 12 by lowering the pallet transporter 56. Operation (E), includingremoving the one or more pallets from the pallet dispenser 2 using thepallet transporter 56. Operation (F), including lowering the palletstack 12 using the weight of the pallet stack 12, the unpowered palletdispenser 2 transitioning to a lowered state 32 when the pallet stack 12is lowered.

Clause (25): the method of clause (24), wherein the operation ofsecuring the pallet stack 12 using the securing mechanism includessecuring the pallet stack 12 immediately above the one or more palletsto be separated from the pallet stack.

Clause (26): the method of clause (24), wherein the securing deviceincludes one or more spring 1200-loaded latches for releasably securingthe pallet stack 12.

Clause (27): the method of clause (25), wherein the securing deviceincludes one or more spring 1200-loaded latches for releasably securingthe pallet stack 12.

Clause (28): the method of clause (24), wherein the lowering of thepallet stack 12 is dampened using one or more dampeners.

Clause (29): the method of clause (28), wherein the one or moredampeners includes one or more hydraulic cylinders fillable with acompression-resistant fluid contained in a closed-loop hydraulic circuit430.

Clause (30): the method of clause (24), wherein the pallet dispenser 2secures the pallet stack 12 before the pallet stack 12 is raised.

Clause (31): the method of clause (24), wherein the unpowered palletdispenser 2 includes raisers for transitioning the unpowered palletdispenser 2 to a ready state after the lowered state 32, and the palletstack 12 is secured so that one or more pallets are separable from thepallet stack 12 when the unpowered pallet dispenser 2 is in the raisedstate 30.

Clause (32): the method of clause (31), wherein the raisers include oneor more cylinders filled with a compressible gas.

Clause (33): the method of clause (24), wherein the pallet dispenser 2secures the pallet stack 12 while the pallet stack 12 is being raised.

Clause (34): the method of clause (24), wherein the pallet dispenser 2secures the pallet stack 12 after the pallet stack 12 is raised butbefore the pallet stack 12 is lowered.

Clause (35): the method of clause (24), wherein the pallet stack 12 islowered while the one or more pallets are removed from the palletdispenser 2 using the pallet transporter 56.

Clause (36): the method of clause (24), wherein the pallet stack 12 islowered after the one or more pallets are removed from the palletdispenser 2 using the pallet transporter 56.

Clause (37): a pallet dispenser 2, including: a support 600 frame havinga front side, a back side, and a first side and the second side; thefront side, back side, and first side and the second side forming anenclosure enclosing a pallet stack 12; the stationary support frame 59configured to allow for at least one pallet to be removed from thepallet stack 12 through at least one of the sides of the stationarysupport frame 59; and a movable frame 510 movably connected to thestationary support frame 59, the movable frame 510 movable between araised position and a lowered position 32; the movable frame 510including a securing device for releasably securing the pallet stack 12so that one or more pallets are separable from the pallet stack 12 whenthe movable frame 510 is being raised to the raised position 30; and themovable frame 510 transitioning to a lowered position 32 when the one ormore pallets have been separated from the pallet stack 12; wherein apallet transporter 56 is used to raise the movable frame 510 to theraised position 30 and to remove the at least one pallet from thestationary support frame 59 and movable frame 510.

Clause (38): the pallet dispenser 2 of clause (37), wherein the securingdevice includes one or more latches for engaging one or more pallets inthe pallet stack 12.

Clause (39): the pallet dispenser 2 of clause (38), wherein the palletstack 12 secures the pallet stack 12 by having the one or more latchesengage the pallet immediately above the bottom pallet in the palletstack 12.

Clause (40): the pallet dispenser 2 of clause (39), wherein the latch 40includes an arm 720 hingedly connected to the movable frame 510; aspring 1200 connecting the arm 720 to the movable frame 510; a dog 700connected to the arm 720 for engaging the pallet stack 12; the arm 720configured to interact with the stationary support frame 59 so that whenthe movable frame 510 is being raised to the raised position 30, the dog700 engages the pallet stack 12; and when the movable frame 510 is inthe lowered position 32 the dog 700 disengages the pallet stack 12.

Clause (41): the pallet dispenser 2 of clause (37), wherein: the palletdispenser 2 includes one or more dampening devices for dampening thelowering of the pallet stack 12 when the movable frame 510 transitionsfrom the raised position 30 to the lowered position 32.

Clause (42): the pallet dispenser 2 of clause (41), wherein: the one ormore dampening devices includes an adjustment device for adjusting therate at which the movable frame 510 transitions from the raised position30 to the lowered position 32.

Clause (43): the pallet dispenser 2 of clause (41), wherein the one ormore dampening devices includes one or more telescoping cylinders; theone or more telescoping cylinders fillable with a compression-resistanthydraulic fluid; a hydraulic circuit 58 containing acompression-resistant hydraulic fluid, the one or more telescopingcylinders in fluid communication with the hydraulic circuit 58; as themovable frame 510 is being raised, the one or more telescoping cylindersare filled with the compression-resistant hydraulic fluid from thehydraulic circuit 58; and as the movable frame 510 is being lowered, thecompression-resistant hydraulic fluid drains from the one or moretelescoping cylinders to the hydraulic circuit 58.

Clause (44): the pallet dispenser 2 of clause (37), further including: araising device for raising the movable frame 510 from the loweredposition 32 to a ready position, the ready position configured betweenthe raised position and the lowered position 32, and the securing devicesecuring the pallet stack 12 when the movable frame 510 is in the readyposition.

Clause (45): the pallet dispenser 2 of clause (44), wherein the raisingdevice includes one or more telescoping cylinders filled with acompressible gas, or counterweights.

Clause (46): a system for dispensing pallets, the system including: apallet transporter 56 for raising and transporting one or more pallets;a pallet dispenser 2 for dispensing pallets; and a pallet-stackenclosure 4 for enclosing a pallet stack 12.

In general terms, what is provided is an unpowered pallet dispensingsystem 100. Unpowered means electrically unpowered. That is, the palletdispensing system 100 does not use electricity for raising or loweringthe pallet stack 12. That is, the pallet dispensing system 100 includesno electrical components for providing energizing power to move themovable frame 510, and operates with the use of only mechanicalcomponents (preferably under the influence of gravity as the force usedto dispense a pallet from the pallet stack 12).

The following are possible advantages provided by the pallet dispensingsystem 100: (A) the pallet dispensing system (100) is configured todispense a pallet at floor level using a pallet truck or a pallet jack;(B) the pallet dispensing system 100 requires no air service orelectrical service, and relatively easier to install at a relatively lowcost; (C) by way of example, approximately four seconds after retrievingthe pallet with a pallet truck, the pallet dispensing system 100 restsat the zero energy state, and therefore safety concerns are negligible(safety may be a concern); (D) because there are no electricalcomponents, therefore the manufacturing cost for making the palletdispensing system 100 is relatively lower; and/or (E) the palletmagazine height is limited by the lifting capacity of the pallet truck,and therefore a capacity of about 30 or about 40 pallets is inexpensiveto achieve with the pallet dispensing system 100.

An example of the operation of the pallet dispenser 2 includes anoperation (A) including resting the movable frame 510 (also called asteel frame having the latches 40) and the latches 40 inside a palletlocated above the pallet making contact with the work surface 8 (theground).

The next operation (B) includes waiting for the pallet transporter 56 toenter (couple with) the pallet resting on the work surface 8, which islocated immediately below the pallet that is latched, via the latches40, to the movable frame 510.

The next operation (C) includes raising the pallet stack 12 verticallyaway from the work surface 8 by a clearance gap having a sufficientsize, such as about three inches (about seventy five millimeters). Theclearance gap is configured to avoid potential movement interferencesfor the case where a pallet is moved into or away from (relative to) thepallet stack 12 positioned in the movable frame 510. It will beappreciated that some pallets may be slightly damaged or warped ormisshaped (they may have nails extending outwardly from the pallet thatmay inadvertently catch with another pallet), and the clearance gap mayprovide improved facilitation or movement of potentially damagedinstances of the pallet relative to the pallet stack 12.

The next operation (D) includes having the hydraulic cylinder 52 supportthe weight of the movable frame 510 and the pallet stack 12, and holdthe movable frame 510 at an upper position located vertically higherfrom the work surface 8, relative to the position of the movable frame510 in operation (B).

The next operation (E) includes waiting for the pallet transporter 56 tolower the pallet that the pallet transporter 56 is currently engagedwith vertically downward toward the work surface 8, by about two inches(about fifty millimeters) (for example).

The next operation (F) includes waiting for the pallet transporter 56 toremove the pallet (the bottom most positioned pallet in the pallet stack12), by backing out of the pallet dispensing system 100.

The next operation (G) includes opening the hydraulic valve 51 andallowing the hydraulic fluid to flow out the hydraulic cylinder 52, andthrough a speed control valve (a restriction orifice located in thehydraulic valve 51), and thereby allowing the movable frame 510 to fallunder the influence of gravity, in a controlled free fall decent to thework surface 8. The movable frame 510 and the pallet stack 12 is loweredto the work surface 8 in about four seconds (for example).

The next operation (I) includes, once the movable frame 510 reaches thework surface 8, removing the weight of the pallet stack 12 from themovable frame 510 by de-latching operation of the latches 40; the latch40 is positioned in the de-latched state (the arm 720 is moved orpivoted) so that the pallet stack 12 is now de-latched from the movableframe 510. The latches 40 are moved out of the pallet (by actuation ofthe cam spring 780 that pivot the latches).

The next operation (J) includes lifting the movable frame 510 by usingthe spring assembly 54, to vertically lift the movable frame 510 up byabout four inches (about one hundred millimeters) (for example).

The next operation (K) includes latching the movable frame 510 with thepallet stack 12 by using the cam rollers 740 (cam follower) to push thecam follower 760 (steel guides) attached to the latches 40, and the arm720 pivots back in with the pallet located above the pallet thatcontacts the work surface 8.

Generally, the hydraulic circuit 58 is self-contained, and includes acheck valve, a flow control valve and hydraulic cylinders 52 configuredto support and to lower the movable frame 510 and the pallet stack 12 tothe ground. The pallet dispensing system 100 is configured to permit theraising of the pallet stack 12 and the movable frame 510 using thepallet truck. A spring loaded frame is configured to position thelatches 40 into the pallet positioned one above the pallet that contactsthe ground.

FIGS. 10A to 10D depict examples of a detection assembly 800 for usewith the pallet dispenser 2.

FIG. 10A depicts the following components: the pallet-stack enclosure 4,the pallet dispenser 2, the pallet dispensing system 100, the movableframe 510, the latch 40, the detection assembly 800 and the pallet 10.The pallet dispenser 2 includes a detection assembly 800 configured todetect dispensation of the pallet 10 from the movable frame 510 (ofpallet dispenser 2).

In other examples, the pallet dispenser 2 includes a detection assembly800 configured to detect once the pallet has been dispensed from thepallet dispenser 2.

FIG. 10B depicts a partial top down view of an example of a detectionassembly 800 of the pallet dispenser 2 of FIG. 1. FIG. 10B depicts thefollowing components: the limit switch assembly 820, the detectionassembly 800, the pallet dispensing system 100, and the actuator 810.The detection assembly 800 includes an electrical photo-eye devicepowered by a battery (and the battery is optionally charged by a solarpanel), and is used to open an electric valve in such a way as to allowthe movable frame 510 to travel downward. The battery may last forapproximately 3000 dispenses (such as for 10 working days), and can berechargable. One way to recharge the battery is to use a solar panel tokeep the battery fully recharged. The downside with this option isdifferent light sources provide varying wavelengths and thereforevarying strengths to power a solar panel. Outdoor natural light providesthe best source and is very practical in less developed warehousesbecause they tend to have warehouse skylights. High pressure Sodium andfluorescent lights are the most popular warehouse lights and power thesolar panel fine. LED lights are the only lights that cannot power thesolar panel however with future developments of solar panels this couldchange. Today, LED lighting is expensive and not very common inwarehouses. Another way to recharge the battery is to exchange thebattery for a second battery that has been recharged by an electricalsource away from the machine. The intention would be for the plant toexchange this battery once per week. This option would not allow us toclaim “zero” energy required however it is a very practical solution andwill be offered as a good option if LED lighting is used in thewarehouse. Of course, an option is to use no electrical components inthe pallet dispensing system 100. In accordance with an option, thepallet dispensing system 100 does not use electrical power to raise orlower the pallet stack 12, such as by way of an electric motor or apowered lifting device. The battery is merely an option for the controlthe flow of hydraulic fluid or oil, or control the conversion ofpotential energy. In accordance with an option, electrical energy is notused to raise the pallet stack 12. To lower the pallet stack 12, thepallet dispensing system 100 uses gravity acting on the movable frame510.

Generally speaking (in accordance with an option), the detectionassembly 800 includes an operator-independent de-latching mechanism thatmay be used with the latch 40. The operator-independent de-latchingmechanism is configured to de-latch the latch 40 from the latched stateto the un-latched state, and may include all mechanical components, or acombination of mechanical components and electrical components(actuators) powered by a battery charged by a solar panel (if sodesired). The operator-independent de-latching mechanism is used toprevent the operator from having to de-latch the latch 40 (if sodesired). The detection assembly 800 may include all mechanicalcomponents, or a combination of mechanical components and electricalcomponents (actuators) powered by a battery charged by a solar panel (ifso desired).

FIG. 10C depicts a partial side view of an example of a detectionassembly 800 of the pallet dispenser 2 of FIG. 1. FIG. 10C depicts thefollowing components: the pallet dispensing system 100, the detectionassembly 800, the actuator 810 and the limit switch assembly 820.

FIG. 10D depicts a perspective view of an example of a detectionassembly 800 of the pallet dispenser 2 of FIG. 1. FIG. 10D depicts thefollowing components: the pallet dispensing system 100, the detectionassembly 800, the actuator 810, and the limit switch assembly 820.

A depicted in FIGS. 10B to 10D, the detection assembly 800 includes anactuator 810. The actuator 810 is located away from the palletdispensing system 100 in such a way that the actuator 810 is onlyactivated once the pallet 10 has been dispensed from the palletdispenser 2. In some examples, the actuator 810 is configured tomanipulate a mechanical signaling device (not shown and known) toindicate that the pallet 10 has been dispensed from the pallet dispenser2.

In another example, the pallet dispenser 2 moves from the raisedposition 30 (FIG. 6) to the ready raised position 34 through the loweredposition 32 (FIG. 6) once the detection assembly 800 is operated todetect that the pallet 10 has been dispensed from the pallet dispenser2.

The pallet dispenser 2 includes a detection assembly 800 beingconfigured to detect once the pallet has been dispensed from the palletdispenser 2.

The pallet dispenser 2 moves from the raised position 30 (FIG. 6) to theraised position 34 through the lowered position 32 (FIG. 6) once thedetection assembly 800 is operated to detect that the pallet 10 has beendispensed from the pallet dispenser 2.

FIG. 11 depicts a partial side view of an example of the latch 40 of thepallet dispenser 2, encircled in FIG. 2G. FIG. 11 depicts the followingcomponents: the pallet stack 12, the latch 40, the pallet dispensingsystem 100, the movable frame 510, the dog 700, the arms 720, the camroller 740, and the cam follower 760. The movable frame 510 is placed inthe latched state otherwise.

A partial side view of an example of the latch 40 of the palletdispenser 2, encircled in FIG. 2A, in a latched position. The palletdispenser 2 is configured to interface with the latch 40 that isspring-loaded. The latch 40 is included in the movable frame 510, sothat the movable frame 510 may be placed in the de-latched state oncethe movable frame 510 moves from the lowered position 32 (positiondepicted in FIG. 2G) to the ready raised position 34 (position depictedin FIG. 11).

FIG. 12 depicts the movable frame 510 placed in the latched state (alatched position), encircled in FIG. 2A.

Referring to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the latch 40 includes latches 40. Thelatches 40 include dogs 700, also called hooks, connected to the arms720, and the arms 720 are movably attached to the movable frame 510 by ahinge 730. The latches 40 are configured to secure the pallet stack 12.In this example, the latches 40 secure a single instance of the pallet11 in the pallet stack 12 such that the pallet stack 12 above the singleinstance of the pallet 11 is supported by the single instance of thepallet 11.

A cam follower 760 is integrated with the arm 720. A corresponding camroller 740 is configured (placed) on the pallet dispenser 2 thatinterfaces with the cam follower 760. In other examples, however, thecam roller 740 is configured (placed) on the arm 720 and the camfollower 760 is configured (placed or positioned) on the palletdispenser 2.

Referring to FIG. 11, the arms 720 are configured to interface with thecam follower 760 on the pallet dispenser 2 so that when the movableframe 510 with the pallet stack 12 is placed on the ground, the latches40 do not engage the pallet 11. In this example, the tension provided bythe cam spring 780 causes the latch 40 to pivot away from the palletstack 12, thereby disengaging the pallet 11 once the movable frame 510with the pallet stack 12 is placed or positioned on the ground.

In these examples, the cam followers 760 or the cam rollers 740 may beindependent of the arm 720 in order to take advantage of thesubstantially vertical movement of the movable frame 510.

In some examples, the orientation of the dog 700 may depend on theconfiguration of the pallet 11 used in the facility. As depicted in FIG.5, FIG. 6, and FIG. 7, the dogs 700 extend substantially perpendicularlyfrom the arm 720. In other examples, the dogs 700 may extend atdifferent angles in order to engage the pallet 11 as may be required.

As depicted in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2G, the movable frame 510 includes alatch 40 configured to secure and release the pallet stack 12. The latch40 is configured to operate in a latched state and a de-latched state.In the latched state, as depicted in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2F, the movableframe 510 holds the pallet stack 12, and the movable frame 510 moveswith the pallet stack 12. In the de-latched state, as depicted in FIG.2G and FIG. 11, the movable frame 510 moves independently of the palletstack 12.

As depicted in FIG. 12, the latches 40 secure the pallet 11 so that thepallet stack 12 is supported by the secured instance of the pallet 11.In this example, the cam follower 760 engages the arm 720 so as toprevent the latch 40 from springing back and disengaging the pallet 11.

In another example, the latch 40 includes the dogs 700. The dogs 700 areconfigured to engage the pallet 11 as depicted in FIG. 12. When the dogs700 engage the pallet 11, the pallet stack 12 located above the pallet11 is secured. In some examples, the dogs 700 may be chamfered not shownso as to engage the pallet 11 more readily by, for example, reducing theamount of friction needed to engage the pallet 11 if so desired.

FIG. 13A depicts a perspective view of an example of the apparatus ofFIG. 1 including a side-loading pallet-enclosing assembly. FIG. 13Adepicts the following components: the pallet-stack enclosure 4, thehinges 605, the solid walls 630, the pallet dispenser 2, the palletdispensing system 100, and the pallet stack 12.

As depicted in FIG. 13A, it may be preferable to configure thepallet-stack enclosure 4 so that the restraint is not in-line with thedirection that pallets 10 are dispensed. In this example, the restraintis orthogonal to the direction that pallets 10 are dispensed. In thisexample, the pallet dispensing system 100 can be used while pallets 10are being added to the pallet stack 12.

FIG. 13B depicts a perspective view of an example of a front loadingpallet-enclosing assembly of the apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG. 13B depictsthe following components: the pallet-stack enclosure 4, the pipes 18,the hinges 605, the solid walls 630, the pallet dispensing system 100and the pallet dispenser 2.

As depicted in FIG. 13B, the restraints can include one or more barsalternately, pipes 18 connected to the supports 600 via the hinges 605.The bars 18 are substantially the height of the supports 600 and areused to keep the pallet stack 12 from tipping, collapsing, or fallingwhen the pallet stack 12 is placed in the pallet dispensing system 100.

FIG. 13B depicts an example of the bar 18 configured to be moved so thatpallets 10 can be added to the pallet stack 12. In this example, thepallet-stack enclosure 4 depicted in FIG. 9C is modular and can beplaced on the pallet dispenser 2 in any orientation. As depicted in FIG.13B, it may be preferable to orient the pallet-stack enclosure 4 so thatthe bar 18 restraint is in-line with the direction that pallets 10 aredispensed.

FIG. 13C depicts a perspective view of an example of the front loadingpallet-enclosing assembly of FIG. 9B. FIG. 13B depicts the followingcomponents: the pallet dispensing system 100, the pallet-stack enclosure4, the pipes 18, the hinges 605, and the solid walls 630.

As depicted in FIG. 13C, the restraints can include one or more barsalternately, pipes 18 connected to the supports 600 via the hinges 605.The bars 18 are substantially the height of the supports 600 and areused to keep the pallet stack 12 from tipping, collapsing, or fallingwhen the pallet stack 12 is placed in the pallet dispensing system 100.

FIG. 13C depicts an example of the pallet-stack enclosure 4 that can beused with the pallet dispenser 2. As depicted, the pallet-stackenclosure 4 includes supports 600 attached to pallet dispenser 2.Restraints are configured between the supports 600 to prevent the palletstack 12 from tipping, collapsing, or falling. In an example, therestraints can include gates not shown or doors not shown.

FIG. 14 depicts an exploded perspective view of an example of alocking-restraint apparatus of the front loading pallet-enclosingassembly of FIG. 9B. FIG. 14 depicts the following components: the solidwalls 630, the pallet-stack enclosure 4, the locking-restraint apparatus1000, the spring-loaded restraints 1100, and the restraint 1300.

FIG. 14 depicts an example of the pallet-stack enclosure 4 that can beused with the pallet dispenser 2. As depicted, the pallet-stackenclosure 4 includes supports 600 attached to pallet dispenser 2.Restraints are configured between the supports 600 to prevent the palletstack 12 from tipping, collapsing, or falling. In an example, therestraints can include gates not shown or doors not shown.

FIG. 15 depicts an exploded perspective view of the locking-restraintapparatus of the front loading pallet-enclosing assembly of FIG. 10.FIG. 15 depicts the following components: the locking-restraintapparatus 1000, the spring-loaded restraints 1100, the spring 1200, andthe restraint 1300.

Referring to FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, a locking-restraint apparatus 1000 isprovided. The locking-restraint apparatus 1000 includes spring-loadedrestraints 1100. The spring-loaded restraints 1100 are configured topivot along an axis parallel to the supports 600. As a pallet 10 isloaded into the pallet-stack enclosure 4 the spring-loaded restraints1100 pivot inwardly, from its initial position, towards the pallet stack12. The spring-loaded restraints 1100 include a spring 1200 and arestraint 1300 that is substantially the height of the pallet-stackenclosure 4. Once the pallet 10 has been placed on the pallet stack 12,the spring-loaded restraints 1100 pivots back towards its initialposition. Once in the initial position, the spring-loaded restraints1100 prevent the pallet stack 12 from tipping, collapsing, or falling.In some examples, the pallet-stack enclosure 4 is modular, as depictedin FIG. 9C and FIG. 10. In other examples, the pallet-stack enclosure 4may form a single unit with the pallet dispenser 2.

With reference to all of the FIGS., it will be appreciated that thepallets that are depicted in the FIGS. are examples of the two-waypallet. Therefore, the latches 40 include the dogs 700 that enter intothe pallet from the front side and the back side of the pallet. Thetwo-way pallet does not form holes on opposite sides, and therefore thelatches 40 latch with the front side and the back side of the two-waypallet.

The four-way pallet defines holes on opposite sides; therefore, for thecase of the four-way pallet, the latches 40 may be modified to engagethe opposite sides of the pallet. It is preferred to engage the oppositesides of the pallet for the case where the pallet is of the four-waytype of pallet since this arrangement may result in a simplifiedarrangement for the components of the pallet dispenser 2. As well, sincethe latches 40 (for this case) are positioned on opposite sides of thepallet, then the front side of the pallet is open and available forengagement with the pallet transporter 56, and therefore the pallettransporter 56 is not likely to inadvertently impart damage to thelatches 40 (therefore likelihood of inadvertent damage to the latches 40will be very low).

It will be appreciated that the gate of FIG. 10A may be customized foruse with a particular type of pallet transporter.

In view of FIGS. 7A to 7I, the following describes a method ofestablishing a vertical pallet stack and dispensing at least one palletfrom a bottom end of the pallet stack. The method includes operations(A) to (L). An operation (A) includes receiving, in the vertical palletstack, a plurality of individual pallets in overlying relationship. Anoperation (B) includes supporting a pallet dispensed from a bottom endof the pallet stack on a support surface in overlying relationship tothe remainder of the pallet stack. An operation (C) includes supportingthe remainder of the pallet stack above the support surface at a supportposition. An operation (D) includes lifting the remainder of the palletstack from the support position to an elevated position. An operation(E) includes supporting the remainder of the pallet stack at theelevated position. An operation (F) includes removing the dispensedpallet so that the dispensed pallet is no longer in overlyingrelationship with the remainder of the pallet stack. An operation (G)includes allowing the remainder of the pallet stack to fall from theelevated position towards the support surface under the influence ofgravity after the operation (F) of removing. An operation (H) includesdampening the fall of the remainder of the pallet stack towards thesupport surface. An operation (I) includes dispensing the lower mostpallet from the bottom end of the remainder of the pallet stack. Anoperation (J) includes supporting the dispensed lower most pallet on thesupport surface. An operation (K) includes lifting the un-dispensedremainder of the pallet stack after the step of dispensing to thesupport position. An operation (L) includes supporting the un-dispensedremainder of the pallet stack at the support position after theoperation (K) of lifting.

The method may include performing the operations (B) to (L) to dispenseanother pallet. The method may include modifying the operation ofremoving is performed at substantially floor level by a pallet truck orjack (pallet transporter). The method may include modifying the range ofmotion to be an entire range of motion from the elevated position to thesupport surface. The method may include having the support surfaceinclude a support surface of an automated pallet handling system. Themethod may include having a pallet truck or jack utilized to perform theoperation (D). The method may include having the pallet truck or jackutilize the dispensed pallet of operation (B) to lift the remainder ofthe pallet stack. The method may include having the operation (K)performed by at least one biasing member.

The following clauses are offered as further description of the examplesof the apparatus. Any one or more of the following clauses may becombinable with any another one or more of the following clauses. Anyone of the following clauses may stand on its own merit without havingto be combined with another other of the clauses. Clause (1): anapparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, further comprising(if so desired) a pallet dispensing system (100), including: a movableframe (510) being configured to movably hold, at least in part, a palletstack (12) between a pallet-storage position and a pallet-dispensationposition, and the movable frame (510) also being configured to hold thepallet stack (12) relative to a pallet transporter (56) in such a waythat the pallet transporter (56) is permitted to vertically lift, atleast in part, the pallet stack (12) as the movable frame (510) isprovided, at least in part, with vertical-lift assistance through storedpotential energy. Clause (2): an apparatus of any clause mentioned inthis paragraph, further comprising (if so desired) a raising devicebeing configured to vertically lift the movable frame (510) away fromthe pallet-dispensation position toward the pallet-storage positionwhile the pallet transporter (56) is permitted to vertically lift thepallet stack (12). Clause (3): an apparatus of any clause mentioned inthis paragraph, further comprising (if so desired) a dampening devicebeing configured to dampen, at least in part, free-fall descent of themovable frame (510) under influence of gravity from the pallet-storageposition toward the pallet-dispensation position. Clause (4): anapparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if sodesired) the movable frame (510) is configured to movably hold thepallet stack (12) having a pallet (10) between the pallet-storageposition and the pallet-dispensation position without consumingelectrical energy. Clause (5): an apparatus of any clause mentioned inthis paragraph, wherein (if so desired) the dampening device isconfigured to dampen free-fall descent of the movable frame (510) underthe influence of gravity from the pallet-storage position toward thepallet-dispensation position without consuming electrical energy. Clause(6): an apparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (ifso desired) the movable frame (510) is configured to movably hold thepallet stack (12) having a pallet (10) between the pallet-storageposition and the pallet-dispensation position without consumingelectrical energy; and the dampening device is configured to dampenfree-fall descent of the movable frame (510) under the influence ofgravity from the pallet-storage position toward the pallet-dispensationposition without consuming electrical energy. Clause (7): an apparatusof any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if so desired) thedampening device includes: a hydraulic cylinder (52) being configured tocooperate with a hydraulic reservoir (450). Clause (8): an apparatus ofany clause mentioned in this paragraph, further comprising (if sodesired) a raising device being configured to move the movable frame(510) away from the pallet-dispensation position toward thepallet-storage position without consuming electrical energy. Clause (9):an apparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if sodesired) the raising device includes: a spring assembly (54) beingconfigured to apply, at least in part, an amount of mechanical kineticenergy being converted, at least in part, from an amount of mechanicalpotential energy to the movable frame (510) in such a way thatapplication, at least in part, of the amount of mechanical kineticenergy to the movable frame (510) urges, at least in part, movement ofthe movable frame (MO) away from the pallet-dispensation position towardthe pallet-storage position. Clause (10): an apparatus of any clausementioned in this paragraph, wherein (if so desired) the raising deviceincludes: a counterweight assembly (790) configured to: store an amountof mechanical potential energy; and convert the amount of mechanicalpotential energy to an amount of mechanical kinetic energy. Clause (11):an apparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if sodesired) the raising device includes: a cylinder filled with acompressible gas. Clause (12): an apparatus of any clause mentioned inthis paragraph, further comprising (if so desired) a pallet dispensingsystem (100), including: a movable frame (510) being configured to: benon-electrically powered in such a way as to operate without consumingelectrical energy; selectively latch with a pallet stack (12) having apallet (10) between an unlatched state and a latched state; and movablyhold, at least in part, the pallet stack (12) between a pallet-storageposition and a pallet-dispensation position once the movable frame (510)and the pallet stack (12) are latched together; and a dampening devicebeing configured to: be non-electrically powered in such a way as tooperate without consuming electrical energy; operatively couple to themovable frame (510); and slow down free-fall descent of the movableframe (510) under influence of gravity from the pallet-storage positiontoward the pallet-dispensation position for a case where the movableframe (510) becomes unlatched from the pallet stack (12), and themovable frame (510) is free to descend under the influence of gravityfrom the pallet-storage position toward the pallet-dispensationposition. Clause (13): an apparatus of any clause mentioned in thisparagraph, wherein (if so desired) the dampening device includes: ahydraulic cylinder (52) being configured to cooperate with a hydraulicreservoir (450). Clause (14): an apparatus of any clause mentioned inthis paragraph, further comprising (if so desired) a raising devicebeing configured to: move the movable frame (510) away from thepallet-dispensation position toward the pallet-storage position withoutconsuming electrical energy; and be non-electrically powered in such away as to operate without consuming electrical energy. Clause (15): anapparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if sodesired) the raising device includes: a spring assembly (54) beingconfigured to apply, at least in part, an amount of mechanical kineticenergy being converted, at least in part, from an amount of mechanicalpotential energy to the movable frame (510) in such a way thatapplication, at least in part, of the amount of mechanical kineticenergy to the movable frame (510) urges, at least in part, movement ofthe movable frame (510) away from the pallet-dispensation positiontoward the pallet-storage position. Clause (16): an apparatus of anyclause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if so desired) the movableframe (510) is configured to movably hold, at least in part, the palletstack (12) having the pallet (10); and once the pallet (10) has beendispensed, gravity moves the pallet stack (12) and the movable frame(510) to the pallet-dispensation position, the amount of mechanicalkinetic energy of a moving instance of the pallet stack (12) beingstored, at least in part, as the amount of mechanical potential energy.Clause (17): an apparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph,wherein (if so desired) the amount of mechanical kinetic energyconverted from a stored amount of mechanical potential energy is used tomove the movable frame (510) from the pallet-dispensation position tothe pallet-storage position once the pallet (10) has been dispensed.Clause (18): an apparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph,wherein (if so desired) the raising device includes: a counterweightassembly (790) configured to: store the amount of mechanical potentialenergy; and convert the amount of mechanical potential energy to theamount of mechanical kinetic energy. Clause (19): an apparatus of anyclause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if so desired) the springassembly (54) is configured to: store the amount of mechanical potentialenergy; and convert the amount of mechanical potential energy into theamount of mechanical kinetic energy. Clause (20): an apparatus of anyclause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if so desired) the movableframe (510) is configured to receive, to hold and to permit movement ofthe pallet stack (12) having the pallet (10); and the raising device isconfigured to operate without powered assistance other than byapplication of gravity to freely move the pallet stack (12). Clause(21): an apparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein(if so desired) the movable frame (510) is configured to receive, tohold and to permit movement of the pallet stack (12) having the pallet(10); and the movable frame (510) is configured to be moved from thepallet-storage position to the pallet-dispensation position by using apallet moving assembly (55) on the pallet stack (12). Clause (22): anapparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if sodesired) the movable frame (510) is configured to remain in thepallet-dispensation position until the pallet (10) has been dispensed.Clause (23): an apparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph,wherein (if so desired) the raising device includes: a hydraulic circuit(58) being coupled to the movable frame (510), and being configured tosupport the movable frame (510) in the pallet-dispensation positionuntil the pallet (10) has been dispensed. Clause (24): an apparatus ofany clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if so desired) thehydraulic circuit (58) further configured to dampen movement of themovable frame (510) from the pallet-dispensation position. Clause (25):an apparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if sodesired) the movable frame (510) is configured to receive, to hold andto permit movement of the pallet stack (12) having the pallet (10); andthe hydraulic circuit (58) includes: a check valve (not shown) beingconnected to a hydraulic reservoir (450); a flow control valve (notshown) being connected to the check valve; and a hydraulic cylinder (52)being connected to the flow control valve, and also being configured tosupport and to lower the movable frame (510) having the pallet stack(12) to ground level. Clause (26): an apparatus of any clause mentionedin this paragraph, wherein (if so desired) the raising device includes:a detection assembly (800) being configured to detect dispensation ofthe pallet from the movable frame 510. Clause (27): an apparatus of anyclause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if so desired) the movableframe (510 moves from the pallet-dispensation position to thepallet-storage position once the detection assembly (800) is operated todetect that the pallet (10) has been dispensed. Clause (28): anapparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if sodesired) the movable frame (510) is configured to receive, to hold andto permit movement of the pallet stack (12) having the pallet (10); andthe movable frame (510) includes: a spring-loaded latch assembly (710)configured to operate in the latched state and a de-latched state, inthe latched state, (A) the movable frame (510) holds the pallet stack(12), and (B) the movable frame (510) moves with the pallet stack (12);and in the de-latched state, the movable frame (510) moves independentlyof the pallet stack (12). Clause (29): an apparatus of any clausementioned in this paragraph, wherein (if so desired) the movable frame(510) is configured to interface with the spring-loaded latch assembly(710) of the movable frame (510) so that the movable frame (510) isplaced in the de-latched state once the movable frame (510) moves fromthe pallet-dispensation position to the pallet-storage position; and themovable frame (510) is placed in the latched state otherwise. Clause(30): an apparatus of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein(if so desired) the movable frame (510) is configured to receive, tohold and to permit movement of the pallet stack (12) having the pallet(10); and a pallet-enclosing assembly (610) configured to receive andenclose the pallet stack (12) so as to limit lateral movement of thepallet stack (12) once the pallet stack (12) is enclosed by thepallet-enclosing assembly (610). Clause (31): a method for dispensingpallets of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, further comprising(if so desired) moving a pallet stack (12) held in a movable frame (510)from a pallet-storage position to a pallet-dispensation positionincluding: raising the pallet stack (12) held in the movable frame(510), the movable frame (510) being configured to be moved between thepallet-storage position and the pallet-dispensation position once thepallet stack (12) is raised; and dispensing a pallet from the movableframe (510). Clause (32): a method for dispensing pallets of any clausementioned in this paragraph, wherein (if so desired) dispensing thepallet (10) includes: storing, at least in part, an amount of mechanicalpotential energy converted from an amount of mechanical kinetic energyonce the movable frame (510) is moved from the pallet-storage positionto the pallet-dispensation position; and removing the pallet (10).Clause (33): a method for dispensing pallets of any clause mentioned inthis paragraph, wherein (if so desired) dispensing the pallet (10)further includes: moving the movable frame (510) from thepallet-dispensation position to the pallet-storage position once thepallet (10) has been removed, and a stored amount of mechanicalpotential energy is converted to the amount of mechanical kineticenergy, the amount of mechanical kinetic energy is used to move themovable frame (510) from the pallet-dispensation position to thepallet-storage position. Clause (34): a method for dispensing pallets ofany clause mentioned in this paragraph, wherein (if so desired)dispensing the pallet (10) further includes: holding the movable frame(510) in the pallet-dispensation position until the pallet (10) has beendispensed. Clause (35): a method for dispensing pallets of any clausementioned in this paragraph, wherein (if so desired) dispensing thepallet (10) further includes: de-latching the pallet stack (12) from themovable frame (510) once the pallet (10) has been dispensed, and themovable frame (510) is moved from the pallet-dispensation position tothe pallet-storage position, and the movable frame (510) is latched tothe pallet stack (12) otherwise. Clause (36): a method for dispensingpallets of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, further comprising(if so desired) raising the pallet stack (12) by using a pallet movingassembly (55). Clause (37): a method for dispensing pallets of anyclause mentioned in this paragraph, further comprising (if so desired)dispensing the pallet using energy being input by the pallet movingassembly (55) and a stored amount of mechanical potential energy. Clause(38): a method for dispensing pallets of any clause mentioned in thisparagraph, wherein (if so desired) the amount of mechanical kineticenergy being converted to the amount of mechanical potential energyincludes gravity acting on the pallet stack (12) once the pallet (10)has been dispensed. Clause (39): a method for dispensing pallets of anyclause mentioned in this paragraph, further comprising (if so desired)dampening, at least in part, free-fall descent of a pallet stack (12)under influence of gravity from a pallet-storage position toward apallet-dispensation position without consuming electrical energy. Clause(40): a method for dispensing pallets of any clause mentioned in thisparagraph, further comprising (if so desired) movably holding, at leastin part, the pallet stack (12) between the pallet-storage position andthe pallet-dispensation position without consuming electrical energy.Clause (41): a method of establishing a vertical pallet stack anddispensing at least one pallet from a bottom end of the vertical palletstack, the method of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, furthercomprising (if so desired) receiving, in the vertical pallet stack, aplurality of individual pallets in overlying relationship; supporting apallet dispensed from the bottom end of the vertical pallet stack on asupport surface in overlying relationship to a remainder of the verticalpallet stack; supporting the remainder of the vertical pallet stackabove the support surface at a support position; lifting the remainderof the vertical pallet stack from the support position to an elevatedposition; supporting the remainder of the vertical pallet stack at theelevated position; removing a dispensed pallet so that the dispensedpallet is no longer in overlying relationship with the remainder of thevertical pallet stack; allowing the remainder of the vertical palletstack to fall from the elevated position towards the support surfaceunder the influence of gravity after removing the dispensed pallet;dampening the fall of the remainder of the vertical pallet stack towardsthe support surface; dispensing a lower most pallet from the bottom endof the remainder of the vertical pallet stack; supporting the dispensedlower most pallet on the support surface; lifting an un-dispensedremainder of the vertical pallet stack after the step of dispensing tothe support position; and supporting the un-dispensed remainder of thevertical pallet stack at the support position after lifting theun-dispensed remainder of the vertical pallet stack after dispensing tothe support position. Clause (42): a method of establishing a verticalpallet stack and dispensing at least one pallet from a bottom end of thevertical pallet stack, the method of any clause mentioned in thisparagraph, further comprising (if so desired) dispensing another pallet.Clause (43): a method of establishing a vertical pallet stack anddispensing at least one pallet from a bottom end of the vertical palletstack, the method of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, furthercomprising (if so desired) removing the pallet is performed atsubstantially floor level by a pallet truck. Clause (44): a method ofestablishing a vertical pallet stack and dispensing at least one palletfrom a bottom end of the vertical pallet stack, the method of any clausementioned in this paragraph, further comprising (if so desired)modifying a range of motion to be an entire range of motion from theelevated position to the support surface. Clause (45): a method ofestablishing a vertical pallet stack and dispensing at least one palletfrom a bottom end of the vertical pallet stack, the method of any clausementioned in this paragraph, further comprising (if so desired) havingthe support surface include the support surface of an automated pallethandling system. Clause (46): a method of establishing a vertical palletstack and dispensing at least one pallet from a bottom end of thevertical pallet stack, the method of any clause mentioned in thisparagraph, further comprising (if so desired) having a pallet truckutilized to perform the lifting of the remainder of the vertical palletstack from the support position to the elevated position. Clause (47): amethod of establishing a vertical pallet stack and dispensing at leastone pallet from a bottom end of the vertical pallet stack, the method ofany clause mentioned in this paragraph, further comprising (if sodesired) having a pallet truck utilize the dispensed pallet beingdispensed from the bottom end of the vertical pallet stack on thesupport surface in the overlying relationship to the remainder of thevertical pallet stack, to lift the remainder of the vertical palletstack. Clause (48): a method of establishing a vertical pallet stack anddispensing at least one pallet from a bottom end of the vertical palletstack, the method of any clause mentioned in this paragraph, furthercomprising (if so desired) lifting the un-dispensed remainder of thevertical pallet stack after the step of dispensing to the supportposition is performed by at least one biasing member.

It may be appreciated that the assemblies and modules described abovemay be connected with each other as may be used to perform desiredfunctions and tasks that are within the scope of persons of skill in theart to make such combinations and permutations without having todescribe each and every one of them in explicit terms. There is noparticular assembly, or components that are superior to any of theequivalents available to the art. There is no particular mode ofpracticing the disclosed subject matter that is superior to others, solong as the functions may be performed. It is believed that all thecrucial aspects of the disclosed subject matter have been provided inthis document. It is understood that the scope of the present inventionis limited to the scope provided by the independent claim(s), and it isalso understood that the scope of the present invention is not limitedto: (i) the dependent claims, (ii) the detailed description of thenon-limiting embodiments (examples), (iii) the summary, (iv) theabstract, and/or (v) the description provided outside of this document(that is, outside of the instant application as filed, as prosecuted,and/or as granted). It is understood, for the purposes of this document,that the phrase “includes” is equivalent to the word “comprising.” It isnoted that the foregoing has outlined the non-limiting embodiments(examples). The description is made for particular non-limitingembodiments (examples). It is understood that the non-limitingembodiments are merely illustrative as examples.

It is obvious that the foregoing embodiments of the invention areexamples and can be varied in many ways. Such present or futurevariations are not to be regarded as a departure from the scope of theinvention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilledin the art are intended to be included within the scope of the followingclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising a pallet dispensingsystem, the apparatus comprising: a movable frame being configured tohold, at least in part, a pallet stack between a pallet-dispensationposition toward a pallet-storage position, the movable frame also beingconfigured to hold the pallet stack relative to a pallet transporter insuch a way that the pallet transporter is permitted to vertically lift,at least in part, the pallet stack and the movable frame from thepallet-dispensation position toward the pallet-storage position as themovable frame is provided, at least in part, with vertical-liftassistance through stored potential energy; and a detection assembly fordetecting when the pallet transporter is moving away from the movableframe, the movable frame also being configured to automaticallyvertically descend from the pallet-storage position toward thepallet-dispensation position in response to the pallet transportermoving away from the movable frame.
 2. The apparatus according to claim1, wherein the detection assembly comprises a photocell.
 3. Theapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detection assembly detectswhen the pallet transporter and the pallet being dispensed is outsidethe movable frame and pallet stack.